In the second of our posts on the churches of Atotonilco we look at the 16th century chapel of San Jose Zacamulpa. The small single nave chapel is sturdily built, with semicircular apsidal buttresses, crenelated nave walls and an exterior stairway leading to the choir, as well as a two tier belltower.
The chapel, a dependency of the church/convento of Santiago we reviewed in our previous post, is also notable for its carved entry porch. Set on broad stone jambs capped with bands of rosettes and vines above and below, the archway is sculpted with a chain of floral motifs linked by vines.
The doorway is surmounted by a square alfiz framed by a ribboned molding resembling the Franciscan knotted cord. To either side of the bust of the patron saint in the overhead niche, the Franciscan connection is underlined by a pair of tasseled medallions enclosing the Five Wounds.
text © 2024 Richard D. Perry
images from online sources
The chapels of Atotonilco de Tula form part of Hidalgo's broader architectural and cultural heritage. Their religious function, local craftsmanship, and connection to community traditions make them valuable examples of Mexico's historic landscape. Planning a road trip through central Mexico can be a great way to discover historic towns and scenic destinations. If you're looking for a bus from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende, checking schedules and travel options in advance can make the journey easier to organize.
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