Capilla San Juanita del Barrio

Curiosity danced in Pedro’s eyes as he pointed towards Capilla San Juanita del Barrio. “Is it true the church changes color?” he whispered. Capilla San Juanita del Barrio stands proudly in the heart of the Barrio San Juan Bautista Tlateuhchi in Xochimilco. This charming chapel holds a special place in the community, nestled near the bustling canals. Its history is interwoven with the ancient ceremonial site upon which it was built. The current Capilla San Juanita del Barrio isn’t the first sacred structure on this site. A previous building, likely dating back to the 16th century, was completely reconstructed around 1730. This date is etched into the base of the bell tower, a silent testament to the chapel’s enduring presence. The chapel’s facade, a blend of lime and sand, exudes a simple elegance. Inside, three semicircular arches create a half-barrel vault, a hallmark of the Neo-Classical style. While the altarpiece and apse are relatively bare, a statue of St. John the Baptist commands attention, alongside a poignant figure of Christ clutching the cross. Above, the Mudejar-style dome whispers tales of Moorish influence on Spanish design. Eight windows, adorned with friezes, encircle the lantern, culminating in a cross that reaches towards the heavens. The intimate space accommodates only 80 people, creating a sense of closeness during services. And yes, Pedro, the church is repainted every few years, often in a new vibrant hue, keeping the spirit of renewal alive in the community. Capilla San Juanita del Barrio is more than just a church; it is a vibrant thread in the rich tapestry of Xochimilco, a place where history and faith intertwine.