San Antonio de Padua, Tecómitl, Milpa Alta

The San Antonio de Padua church is the main parish church for San Antonio Tecómitl. One of the 12 original settlements of Milpa Alta, it’s a fascinating place with a long history of mysticism and legend. The parish church and former monastery was built by the Franciscan order in the 16th century. It was recognized as an historic monument in 1933. The temple has Neoclassical elements, Doric columns, and rather Gothic windows of stained glass. The most peculiar features are it’s white façade and the Plateresque bell tower.

Inside, guests will find an enormous collection of Baroque art. This includes watercolor paintings, lamps, and many paintings on the life of Anthony.

• Saint Anthony was a Portuguese Catholic priest and Franciscan friar. Born to a wealthy family in Lisbon, he died in Padua, Italy, and he’s remembered as one of the saints most quickly canonized in church history. He’s recognized for his powerful preaching and his love and devotion to the poor and the sick. His life and works are represented on the walls, domes, and by the altar of the church.

The processional walk from the Parish Church to the Olla de Piedra, St. Anthony Chapel takes about 20 minutes.

For many years, the San Antonio de Padua church was a setting for weddings, baptisms and other events of the local community. The church is in the heart of Milpa Alta, so it’s still an important landmark and meeting point. This church faces the Plaza de la Corregidora and its Reloj de San Antonio Tecomitl, a monumental clocktower. The church also sometimes broadcasts masses on the their Facebook Page. Just past the church atrium, on Ave. 5 de Mayo, the public market makes a great place to eat whenever you’re in town.