The Basilica de la Soledad, a few blocks west of the zócalo, is dedicated to the Virgen de la Soledad, the patron saint of Oaxaca. The façade is one of the finest examples of Mexican baroque in the city — ornate stone carvings of saints, angels, and botanical motifs framing a surprisingly intimate doorway. The interior is dominated by the richly dressed figure of the Virgin, her crown set with precious stones.
The square in front of the basilica is one of the nicest places in Oaxaca to sit — lined with stands selling tejate (a frothy pre-Hispanic chocolate drink made with cacao and mamey sapote seeds), nieve de barro (traditional ice cream served in clay pots), and buñuelos. The atmosphere on feast days, particularly around the Virgen's day in December and Semana Santa, is extraordinary.