Holy Infant of Atocha

The sanctuary displays a figure of the Christ child dressed in pilgrim clothing, holding a basket of bread in one hand and a staff in the other. The representation stands in a room with glass walls, surrounded by countless small votive paintings and flower arrangements.

The devotion arose in 13th-century Spain when a child in pilgrim clothing brought food to Christian captives under Moorish rule. Spanish settlers brought the devotion to Zacatecas in the 16th century, where it spread rapidly among miners.

Pilgrims from across Mexico and beyond come here to bring shoes, toys, or jewelry for the infant, items later distributed to those in need. The offerings reflect the old motif that the divine child himself travels and needs help.

The building opens early in the morning and remains accessible until evening, with the largest crowds arriving on Sundays and special occasions. Indoor spaces for prayer and lighting candles are easy to reach from the main entrance.

Miners from the region tell of encounters with a child matching the figure who offered help during emergencies underground. Some report that small footprints remain in the dust of the tunnels after someone is rescued in ways no one can explain.