Bon Voyage

Several days a week from our terrace we can see the cruise ships when they dock in the channel miles away, arriving at 6am and then departing between 5:30 and 6pm on the same day. Watching them is fascinating because these behemoths can turn on a dime as well as move swiftly through the water. The wharf area is a city in itself with every kind of shop and service imaginable; however, instead of remaining in the immediate area, most passengers hustle off the ship, ride into El Centro or Zona Dorada, spending the day looking at local culture and spending money in souvenir shops or the central mercado. A lucky few find Stone Island which is a paradise of thatched roof restaurants and a sandy beach along the shoreline. One night this ship left just a little behind schedule which is rare since their arrivals and departures are dependable as clockwork. The lighted Cathedral's spires and the ship's lights made a spectacular scene.

Cathedral

The top photo is a side view of the main Cathedral in El Centro as seen in the distance from my terrace. The small photo is a partial view of the front of the Cathedral. "This large 19th-century cathedral, right in the heart of Old Mazatlán, has high, yellow twin towers, a dramatic interior and some beautiful statues. Built from 1875 to 1890, it faces the Plaza Principal, which has lush trees and a bandstand." (from The Lonely Planet website)

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

I got the following description from a website called Bestday.com: "The Cathedral is located in the very heart of downtown Mazatlan; its construction began in 1875 and was finished in 1899, and it was dedicated to Mary's Immaculate Conception in 1937. It is considered the most beautiful cathedral in the northwest of Mexico; featuring magnificent sculptures in its atrium. The building has a remarkable Gothic style, and its decoration is mainly Baroque with a neoclassical feel, thus featuring a variety of styles. When you visit the cathedral you will be surprised at its many works of art, which include not only magnificent sculptures but also inspiring paintings. Hopefully you will be able to listen to the wonderful organ of the cathedral, which was built in Paris in the 19th century." A good photo for domingo, isn't it?

Cathedral Window

The Cathedral in El Centro is an imposing structure. Imagine my surprise to see this simple window in the rear of the church, instead of a loftier stained glass structure which is often found in many other churches of the same size. But, its beauty rests in its simplicity.