Does the name Nextengo ring a bell? Probably not. Yet, here stands the Chapel of San Salvador Nextengo. It is a testament to a rich history. San Salvador Nextengo is more than just a building. It is a window into Mexico City’s past.
Once, this area was the pueblo originario of Nextenco. Nextenco was one of 25 original settlements. These settlements fell under the Tepaneca leadership of Azcapotzalco. The Dominicans later evangelized them in the 16th century.
The name Nextengo has its roots in Nahuatl. “Nextli” means ashen or gray. “Tentli” means edge or shore. “Co” signifies place. Thus, Nextengo translates to “place on the shore of ash.” This likely referred to agricultural burning practices.
The earliest Christians rededicated Nextenco to San Salvador. Legend says they erected a simple chapel of stone and adobe. Around this time, the ending “-co” changed to “-go.”
By the 17th century, San Salvador Nextengo had a new chapel. Azcapotzalco received three sculptures of Jesús Nazareno from Seville. The King of Spain sent them. The old hermitage was rededicated to venerate one of these statues. Later modifications gave the facade its current appearance. Carved stone, brick, and trim define it.
One statue became a neighborhood favorite. Residents carried it through the streets. They sought intercession for rain. They wanted help cultivating the fields around the area. Pilgrims also visited the chapel. They came to ask for favors. El Señor de Nextengo is displayed on the main altar today. It was built in the 19th century. The altar features carved stone and Neoclassical elements.
San Salvador Nextengo is near a famous spring. This spring was one of many. They flowed into the ancient Lake Texcoco. Pilgrims and the devout frequented this spring.
The neighborhood benefited from residential construction during the Porfirato era. This is evident on many quiet streets. The chapel served as a backdrop in films in the 1950s. Since then, it has returned to a quieter existence.
The chapel’s facade includes a door flanked by pilasters. Above, a panel displays a face of Christ. A modern window sits in the facade’s center. Above it is the espadaña. It contains three bells within arches. A cantera cross tops the facade.
Today, San Salvador Nextengo continues to hold significance. Locals celebrate on the Fourth Friday of Lent. They perform the Via Crucis and attend a solemn mass. A kermes and cultural event follow on Sunday. These events are remnants of a once grand celebration. It keeps the traditions alive in Nextengo.
The Chapel of San Salvador Nextengo stands as a reminder. It recalls the ancient village. It remembers faith. It echoes in the stones of San Salvador Nextengo.