Picture the scene. You stand before San Agustín Ohtenco a small settlement nestled within Milpa Alta. This is one of the youngest of the twelve original pueblos. It pulsates with youthful energy.
San Agustín Ohtenco. Its name Ohtenco means “Place at the side of the road” in Nahuatl. This quiet location speaks volumes about its history. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity. The town’s relative youth is striking. Compared to its older neighbors it has a distinctly different atmosphere.
The Parish Church of San Agustín Ohtenco stands as a testament to this blend of old and new. Construction started in 1980. It was completed in 1986. Built of steel and concrete. Its neoclassical details stand out. The bell tower a series of graceful semicircular arches. It is quite different from older churches in the area.
Unlike many older towns in Milpa Alta San Agustín Ohtenco didn’t grow organically over centuries. It maintains a remarkable sense of community. Its population is notably younger than in other areas. The lack of commercialism is apparent. It offers a different kind of charm.
Despite its youth San Agustín Ohtenco has become a destination in its own right. Many visitors pass through on their way to the FARO Art School in nearby Miacatlán. This is a very unique circumstance. Many find themselves charmed. They often return. The Day of the Dead festivities are particularly popular. The town’s vibrant spirit is contagious.
This is San Agustín Ohtenco. A small town with a big heart. A place that embodies the spirit of youth and tradition. A place where you can feel the energy of a community thriving. A place that surprises and delights with its beauty and simplicity. A place well worth remembering.