Dating back to the 17th century the Iglesia Ahuizotla stands as a testament to the rich history of this ancient neighborhood. This is Santiago Ahuizotla. It is one of the original settlements of Azcapotzalco. The Iglesia Ahuizotla likely stands on the site of an ancient Tepaneca temple. Imagine ceremonies dedicated to Tlaloc once held here.
In the early 20th century excavations revealed that the area was populated at the time of the Teotihuacan civilization. That civilization existed nearly a thousand years before the Tepaneca people. Human burials and ceramic remains were unearthed east of the Iglesia Ahuizotla. These discoveries were later re-buried.
Notice the giant atrium surrounding the Iglesia Ahuizotla. This is unusual because many church atriums became public squares in the 19th century. The facade features three entryways elaborated in quarried stone. Above them a smooth triangular alfiz frames the oculus.
Inside the Iglesia Ahuizotla a single nave is divided into three sections. Each section is covered by a vaulted ceiling. The presbytery comprises a fourth section. It features a neoclassical altarpiece crowned by an octagonal dome. The octagonal dome is special. It is covered with pink blue and yellow tiles. The windows of the Iglesia Ahuizotla let in light. The light illuminates the interior of the Iglesia Ahuizotla creating a special atmosphere.
The Iglesia Ahuizotla is a remarkable church in an ancient neighborhood. You can see why international visitors come to wander these central streets. The Iglesia Ahuizotla celebrates its traditional festival on July 25. This is the day of Santiago el Mayor.
The Iglesia Ahuizotla’s chapel features Cristo en la Cruz and the Virgen de Guadalupe. You will also see Santiago Apóstol. In the atrium, there is an image of Santiago and a holy water font. Inside observe the arches that support the naves.
Consider the retablo behind the altar. It is carved from stone and displays neoclassical elements. Columns surround a cypress covered with a bell-shaped dome. In the atrium stone vaults hold reliefs of a cross host and chalice. Inside the nave images and paintings of Santiago Apóstol adorn the walls. In the presbytery are depictions of the Purísima Concepción the Virgen de Guadalupe and Santiago Apóstol. The Iglesia Ahuizotla is more than just a church. It is a journey through time. It connects us to the ancient civilizations that once thrived here. It reminds us of the enduring power of faith and community.