Parroquia de San José, Catholic parish in Tlaxcala de Xicoténcatl, Mexico

Parroquia de San José is a Catholic parish in Tlaxcala de Xicoténcatl featuring a New Spanish Baroque facade made of mortar, brick, and tile. A single bell tower with semicircular arches and Tuscan pilasters frames the exterior.

Built in the 17th century on the site of a 16th-century chapel, the temple was completed on 18 March 1669 after the earlier structure was demolished in 1666. It served as cathedral twice, in 1640 and again from 1959 to 1975. A 1864 earthquake collapsed its main dome, and the 2017 Puebla earthquake closed it until its reopening on 18 March 2024.

During the viceregal period the temple served Spaniards exclusively, while mestizos attended the neighbouring Capilla Real de Indios. Two stone holy water fonts now in the church came from that royal chapel: their pedestals carry the pre-Hispanic god Camaxtli and the Spanish imperial coat of arms. The side chapels hold oil paintings by Manuel Caro.

The church stands in the Centro of Tlaxcala de Xicoténcatl, a short walk from the main square. It was closed after the 19 September 2017 Puebla earthquake and reopened on 18 March 2024 following INAH restoration, so check current opening times before visiting.

Two stone-carved holy water fonts inside display two contrasting worlds of imagery. One bears the image of the pre-Hispanic god Camaxtli, while the other shows the Spanish royal coat of arms.