third cathedralBishop Diego Vazques de Mercado solemnly consecrates the cathedral on 5 December1614.the cathedral of this era was made of stone.It had 3 naves,7 chapels including the main one, and 10 altars. On August 1,1621, a strong earthquake fractured its walls and pillars and damaged it roof so that it was too dangerous even to enter the church. The task of reconstruction fell upon Don Pedro Flavio, appointed as interim Governor of the archdiocese. Twin earthquake in November and December of this year damage the structure beyond repair such that it was necessary to build a temporary structure of wood in the plaza fronting the church.