The Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro, Michoacan
The Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro, in the municipality of
Huiramba, 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Patzcuaro
on the Highway No. 14, is a place that we widely recommend to our guests at Hotel Mansion Iturbe.
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| Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro, Michoacán |
Also known as the Sistine Chapel
of Michoacán, its construction dates from the 16th century, and was moved
forward by the Creole clergyman
originally from Patzcuaro, Don Diego Fernández de
Villegas. The temple, dedicated to the devotion to the “Lord of the
Pines,” is renowned for its construction using local techniques.
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| Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro, Michoacán |
In the Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro, you can admire one of the
few ceilings from the 18th century in Mexico that was painted with the help of
the local indigenous.
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| Celling from the Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro |
When visiting the Temple of Apostle Santiago, give yourself time to appreciate the
detailing of this fine work of art.
The polychrome woodwork will
mesmerize you with its 23.5-carat gold leaf. You will find different paintings,
such as that of Apostle Santiago himself, the Adoration of the Kings, the
Crowning of Thorns, the Road to Calvary, Flogging, and Praying in the Garden.
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| Polychrome woodwork at Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro |
The original wood floors are tops
of tombs, which was not an uncommon practice during that epoch.
You will be amazed and delighted
with the myriad of details of the paintings from the colonial period on the
walls. Also next to the sacristy, you'll find a small museum, highlighting
figures of “pasta de caña” (corn stalk paste) and various paintings of the 18th
century, among others.
The foundation Adopt a Work of
Art played a vital role in the restoration of this colonial gem, and highlights
the care and pride and sense of belonging that the community has for their
heritage.
Please note
the following:
- Limit your photographs to three; and
- Please use no flash.
Inside the temple, you will find a knowledgeable and
helpful community member, whose task it is to protect this precious heritage
and attend to the visitors. To get the most out of this visit, it would
be helpful if you have a good handle on Spanish – or find an interpreter before
you go – so you can ask the representative questions that you are bound to have.
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| The Temple of Apostle Santiago in Tupataro, Michoacan |
Visit this
temple, at such a short distance from our Magical Town, Patzcuaro. It’s an unforgettable experience for art lovers
and culture buffs alike.
*Text and pictures property of Hotel Mansión Iturbe.
We invite you to check more articles in our blog, you will find information about Pátzcuaro and its surroundings that we hope will be helpful for your next visit to our colonial town in Mexico.
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