All about Iglesia de Jesus in Mérida, Mexico (2025 Guide)

The huge Iglesia de Jesus, Tereca Orden (Church of Jesus) in Mérida is located on the corner of Calle 57 and Calle 60. It's one block from Plaza Grande.

Parque a la Maternidad is on the the left and Parque Hidalgo is on right. In Parque Hidalgo you will find some shady spots as well as a Starbucks and a Santa Clara ice cream parlor.

The church was built in 1618 by Jesuits from the stones of a destroyed Maya temple that occupied the site. Initially, the church was much smaller, and it was not until the end of the 17th century that the Jesuits expanded it in the Baroque style to its present size.

Notably, the building is made of masonry, combining smaller stones and limestone blocks bonded with mortar. Remnants of a square pattern on the stone indicate its original stucco finish.

Inside, the church boasts detailed and well-preserved frescoes painted in golden and pastel colors, with large murals depicting religious themes and biblical images. The majestic vaulted ceilings and meticulous details are truly impressive.

Opening Hours

The Iglesia de Jesús is typically open during the following hours:

• Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Saturday: 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM

• Sunday: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The opening hours listed at the beginning of the overview come directly from Google, but even these are not always accurate. If in doubt, it is best to stop by, as the church is centrally located.

As a visitor, it's important to be respectful during your visit. Dress modestly, keep noise to a minimum, and avoid using flash photography. If a service is in progress, consider waiting until it concludes before exploring the interior.

The Beautiful Interior

The Iglesia Jesus, like most of the churches in Mérida, has a rather plain facade, but one of the most beautiful interiors of all churches in Mérida.

You will find beautiful fresco paintings depicting biblical scenes. Every wall is decorated, some with gold paint. This also gives an interesting contrast to the very plain and simple exterior of the church.

Wooden Altar

The main altarpiece, inaugurated in the mid-20th century, presents a wooden monument with four columns framing the image of Christ.

The two upper pedestals display the Virgin Mary and Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. At the top of the altar is a statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The Cruciform Plan

The Church of Jesus follows a traditional cruciform floor plan, characterized by a central nave intersected by a transept, forming the shape of a cross.

This architectural layout, commonly found in historic Christian churches, enhances both the structural stability and symbolic significance of the building, directing focus toward the main altar while also accommodating side chapels and additional worship spaces.

Side Chapels

The side chapels of the Iglesia de Jesús feature ornate altars, religious statues, and gold-accented decorations, reflecting the church’s colonial heritage.

Tall stone columns separate them from the central nave, while arched windows allow natural light to highlight the intricate details.

Wooden benches in both side chapels provide seating for prayer, and the checkered floor contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the walls, enhancing the historic atmosphere.

Ceiling Design

When you step into the Iglesia de Jesús, be sure to also look up at the ceiling. It stands out, especially compared to other churches in the city.

As mentioned, the church is designed in a cross shape, and right in the center, there's this impressive dome. This dome sits on a circular base with small stained-glass windows that let in natural light, giving the place a warm glow.

The high vaulted ceilings and detailed designs add to the overall grandeur. It's a sight worth seeing if you're around. For the photo above, I placed the camera flat on the ground (I was almost alone in the church at the time).