Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico

Built on top of the capital of the Aztec empire, Tenochtitlan, Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral exemplifies the dynamic nature of a city and nation influenced by its indigenous and colonial histories. The Cathedral complex is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mexico and is composed of four buildings: the cathedral, the sagrario or sacristy, the Capilla de las Animas, and the Ex curia building. The expansively ornate cathedral draws visitors from around the world and remains an active religious center for Mexicans today. 

This expansively ornate cathedral draws visitors from around the world and remains an active religious center for Mexicans today. The historic city center - including the cathedral - is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, specifically for the exemplary architecture featured in the buildings around the city and their historical significance. This cathedral is the oldest and largest cathedral in all of Latin America, and has survived centuries of harsh weather and earthquakes. The cathedral also currently houses the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mexico. 

In November 2018, CyArk documented the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sites and Monuments and the Secretaria de Cultura, Agenda Digital de Cultura. Citibanamex Compromiso Social supported the project. Subject to earthquake damage over the centuries of its existence, a 2017 earthquake caused further damage to the structure. Using laser scanning technology, photogrammetry, and drones, CyArk digitally captured details of the structure today. This information will aid site managers in restoration work and preserving the cathedral, one of Mexico’s most important religious and historic sites.