Sanctuary of Atotonilco

The sanctuary features baroque murals covering walls and ceilings, with detailed paintings depicting religious scenes throughout the main nave and six chapels.

Father Luis Felipe Neri de Alfaro initiated the construction in 1740, creating a religious complex that later became instrumental during Mexico's independence movement.

The sanctuary hosts an annual Easter procession where participants carry the image of Señor de la Columna to San Juan de Dios church in San Miguel.

Regular buses depart from Calzada de La Luz in San Miguel every hour, taking 45 minutes to reach the sanctuary for a fare of 10 Mexican pesos.

The thermal springs beneath the sanctuary structure have caused preservation challenges, requiring extensive restoration efforts to protect the architectural elements.

Location: San Miguel de Allende

Part of: Protective town of San Miguel and the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco

Website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1274

GPS coordinates: 21.00499,-100.79456

Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:26