Discovery in the Dome

Mexico City's Metropolitan Cathedral suffered moderate damage in the 2017 earthquake, and since 2019 workers have been doing repair work.  On my previous trip to Mexico, the facade, bell towers and dome were all covered with scaffolding.  Visitors had to enter the Cathedral through a side door.  Work is nearing completion.  When Alejandro and I went downtown last Saturday, most of the scaffolding had been removed, and the front entrance was open.  However, work was continuing on the dome. 

If you look closely, you might be able to workers on the scaffolding.

The Cathedral was built over the course of 240 years, beginning in 1573 and completed in 1813.  The dome, which was designed by the Spanish-born architect and sculptor Manuel Tolsá, was one of the last portions of the Cathedral to be constructed.

Last December workers made an interesting discovery while repairing the dome.  A tile inside had come loose, revealing a niche which contained a small lead box. Within the box was a painting of a Bible scene on parchment.  Workers then discovered 22 more boxes, each one containing prayers, paintings or crosses.

(image taken from the internet)

One of the pieces of parchment bore the date of 1810.  It is believed that the boxes were placed in the dome in a ritual to offer protection to the building.  Some of the objects were in good condition; others were damaged by humidity.  After all of the objects have been analyzed, they will be placed in the boxes once again.  The boxes will be covered in protective coverings and returned to their original location within the dome.