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You can photograph the tree, church and gardens from outside the fenced area but we decided to buy a ticket to go inside to get a little closer. Cost was 20 pesos each or about $1.19US.
There are also two smaller trees (hijos (sons) of the grand tree) in the courtyard, one has grown twisted in an interesting spiral formation. Trees sometimes do this when growing on energy lines and in energetically charged places. Since the Spanish built most of their temples over existing indigenous temples located in places with powerful energy it’s no wonder.
There was a special decorative arch erected at the entryway of the church. If you look closely at the detail you may notice that it’s made of palm and other plant leaves and branches all fashioned by hand into the final design. Quite a feat!
The gardens are quite beautiful but we are always rather amazed at the topiary in Mexico. Much more intricate and abundant (seems like every garden has topiary) here than in the U.S.
