Within the Basilica complex stands the Old Parish Church of the Indians. This is where our journey to the Capilla de la Virgen en Rejas truly begins. The Capilla de la Virgen en Rejas is more than just a chapel. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and history. It’s nestled within a larger complex. This complex holds the weight of centuries of devotion.
Built around 1649 at the request of a vicar the church served a vital purpose. The vicar catered to a large indigenous population. He also printed the Nican Mopohua a Nahuatl narrative of the Virgin of Guadalupe’s apparitions. This church became a center of evangelism and religious services for the indigenous community. A brotherhood of indigenous peoples was even established here in 1679.
The Capilla de la Virgen en Rejas witnessed pivotal moments in Mexican history. It is said to have housed the original image of the Virgin of Guadalupe from 1695 to 1709. More remarkably it sheltered Miguel Hidalgo’s banner. This banner led the initial charge of the Mexican War for Independence. It remained here from 1853 to 1896.
Sadly the church fell into disrepair. It lacked a roof for many years until 1998. Its reopening marked the 450th anniversary of Juan Diego’s death. The sacristy holds remnants of older hermitages. These were built by Bishop Zumárraga in 1531 and replaced by Bishop Montúfar in 1556. A third church from 1622 known as the “coffered ceiling church” no longer stands today.
Today the Old Parish Church of the Indians including the Capilla de la Virgen en Rejas remains an active part of the Parish Church of Santa María. It hosts special Masses sermons and community events. Daily mass is held at 8 am from Sunday to Friday. The Capilla de la Virgen en Rejas therefore continues to serve its community. It silently bears witness to the passage of time and the enduring power of faith. So let us reflect for a moment on its rich legacy and the stories it holds. The Capilla de la Virgen en Rejas awaits.