Santos in Oaxaca's Ancient Churches

A study of santos in 16th-century and other churches in Oaxaca, Mexico


By Claire and Richard Stracke
Funded by a grant from the Rockefeller Foundation

In Santa María de la Natividad Zaachila:

Christ in a coffin
Immaculate Heart of Mary
Nativity of Mary
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Resurrected Christ
St. Nicholas Factor 1
St. Nicholas Factor 2

The Nativity of Mary

In the church we also recorded a santo of the Virgen de la Natividad (white and blue garments, no crown). Our informant said that the Virgin's feast is celebrated on September 8, which is indeed the date appointed for this feast by the universal church. When asked how the statue might figure in Christmas celebrations, he said Christmas was not very important except for children. He would not allow photographs because some older women parishioners had entered the church.

Location: High above and to the left of the main altar.

Next: Turning to the south wall, we find a statue of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Previous santo

Introduction to Santa María Zaachila

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