This Catholic church and former monastery, located within Oaxaca City near the zocalo, will absolutely take your breath away upon entering. The giant stone exterior and architecture outside is impressive, but the inside is on another level. From ceiling to floor, the church is covered in carvings, statues, mosaics and gold — 60,000 sheets of 23 karat gold leaf are said to be used inside! The interior just glistens, even at night. The church was founded by the Dominican Order and construction of the church, which began in 1575, took 200 years. The church was restored to religious use in 1938 and a full restoration was completed in 1999.

Visitors are welcome inside but be mindful that it is a working church and masses and celebrations do take place here on a regular basis. Flash photography is not permitted.