Designing Eternity: Celebrating 25 Years

Design lifts what words cannot express. The Santuario De los Mártires de Cristo Rey in Tlaquepaque, Jalisco emerged as a response to the need for a sacred space that honors the Mexican Martyrs with dignity and presence. Dedicated to a group of Catholics who died for their faith during the Cristero War in early 20th century Mexico, the project carries deep historical and spiritual significance.

Architect José Manuel Gómez Vázquez Aldana, our founder, designed the Sanctuary as an expression of his deep faith, combining artistic design with architectural innovation. Through every curve and contour, he crafted a sacred space that is set to be one of the largest in the world, speaking to the spiritual heart of a community.

Santuario de los mártires, Guadalajara, Jalisco

25 years of remembrance, and design

Sourced from the Santuario de los Mártires fan page on Facebook.

On May 21st, 2025, the community celebrated the 25th anniversary of the canonization of the Mexican Martyrs. They honored their bravery and reaffirmed their dedication to a sanctuary that keeps their memory alive. The anniversary became a moment of reflection and renewed purpose, where devotion took shape as a lasting space of meaning.

 Architect José Manuel Gómez, who designed the sanctuary in support of the Archdiocese, attended the celebration and took part in this meaningful moment.

Architecture That Speaks to the Soul

Architect José Manuel Gómez Vázquez Aldana shaped the project, infusing it with contemporary design and profound symbolism. His creative direction positions the sanctuary as a new icon of religious architecture rooted in Mexico's cultural and spiritual identity. Inspired by the unwavering faith of the people of Jalisco, the design seeks to become a tangible symbol of their devotion. This sacred space reflects their spiritual legacy with architectural clarity.

sanctuary´s interior

His vision includes smart ventilation through air injection at the base, generating a chimney effect that naturally expels warm air during large gatherings. This thoughtful feature enhances comfort and reduces energy use, demonstrating how design can uplift both spirit and sustainability.

A Sculptural Statement of Faith

The sanctuary's design commands attention with its three massive overlapping domes, remarkable for having no interior support. The structure features a cutting-edge aluminum roof stretching over 14,000 square meters, shaped by a delicate steel mesh that forms four distinct domes, three flowing freeform shapes, and one striking semi-sphere at the entrance, offering panoramic views of the Guadalajara city from Cerro del Tesoro. The interior concrete ribs carve sweeping curves into the grand seating areas, creating a powerful spatial experience. Spanning 16.5 hectares, the sanctuary accommodates 12,000 people in its main hall and an additional 50,000 in the atrium and front plaza. It also includes a hospital, nursing school, and guest accommodations, addressing both spiritual and practical needs.

sactuary´s sketch

Architectural and Cultural Icon

This sanctuary will become an international reference for contemporary religious architecture and a powerful symbol of faith and identity for the people of Guadalajara. It completes a sacred triangle with the Santuario de Cristo Rey  and the Basílica de Guadalupe, connecting Mexico's rich religious heritage.

Celebrating 25 years since the canonization of the Mexican Martyrs, this sanctuary honors their bravery through a bold and visionary design. It captures the spirit of faith and resilience, inspiring everyone who visits. The architecture stands as a powerful symbol of devotion and hope, rising proudly over the city and illuminating a profound legacy. Faith ignites the soul. Memory builds eternity.