La Purísima, Monterrey, Mexico
La Purísima in Monterrey is a landmark of modernist Mexican Catholic architecture, designed by Enrique de la Mora y Palomar (1907–1978) and documented by Fr. John Domin in 1939 photographs.
Architecture
- Parabolic vaults replace the traditional rectangular shape of earlier churches, extending from floor to ceiling
- Free-standing brick campanile contrasting with smooth concrete vaults
- The church structure looms high above nearby buildings
- Raised altar as the focal point of the vaulted sanctuary
- Ample indirect light filtering in through side windows
Artwork
- Angel and Christ sculptures
- Stained glass window with Stations of the Cross below
- Huge crucifix on the church exterior
- Crucifix with twelve apostles below statue of Mary on the tower