The Church of Atotonilco, also known as the Sanctuary of Jesus of Nazareth, is a remarkable religious complex located near the town of San Miguel de Allende, in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico.
Built in the 18th century by Father Luis Felipe Neri de Alfaro, the church is a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque art and architecture, featuring stunning murals, paintings, sculptures, and altars that cover every inch of its walls and ceilings. The church has been nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of Mexico” for its artistic richness and beauty.
The Church of Atotonilco is not only a place of worship and pilgrimage, but also a symbol of national identity and history. It was here that the leaders of the Mexican War of Independence, such as Ignacio Allende and Miguel Hidalgo, took the banner of the Virgin of Guadalupe as their flag in 1810, and started their march towards San Miguel de Allende, where they would launch the first major uprising against the Spanish colonial rule.
Atotonilco was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008, along with the historic center of San Miguel de Allende, for its cultural and artistic significance, as well as its contribution to the development of a mestizo culture in Mexico. The church is open to visitors every day and offers guided tours, concerts, and exhibitions. It is also a popular destination for spa lovers, as it is surrounded by natural hot springs and thermal baths.
This magnificent Church is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to discover the beauty and diversity of Mexico’s cultural heritage and to experience the spirituality and history of this fascinating country.
San Miguel Times
Newsroom