The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, erected between 1600 and 1620, is considered a monument according to the Federal Law on Monuments and Archaeological Zones. This vestige is what remains of an ancient major Catholic temple, which witnessed the colonial era, the caste war and the first scientific expeditions that came to these lands to investigate the construction of the sacred city of Chichén Itzá. In addition, it represents a monument of the Spanish evangelization program, marking the beginning of the miscegenation and cultural syncretism between Spanish culture and the indigenous Mayan peoples, a heritage that is still appreciated in this facility.

Since its foundation, the town of Pisté has been the gateway to the pre-Hispanic city of Chichén Itzá, its Chapel being a fundamental element in local history. Both the Chapel and the town have witnessed a long historical process, and its conservation as cultural heritage is crucial to preserve the memory and roots of the identity of its current inhabitants.

The current exhibition is the result of conservation work, archaeological rescue and historical research, with the aim of returning to the town of Pisté one of its most beloved historical monuments.

History

When the Spanish arrived at Chichén Itzá, this ancient sacred city had already lost its splendor and many of its monuments were covered by the jungle, as described by bishop Fray Diego de Landa , witness to the ceremonies that the Mayans still performed in the sacred cenote and the Kukulkan temple. In the 16th and early 17th centuries, construction began on the town of Pisté and its church, as part of the evangelization program of the Franciscan order. In 1619, the church was built under the dedication of San Juan Bautista, using materials from the ancient pre-Hispanic city of Chichén Itzá, as can be seen on the walls.

In 1754, the temple was transformed and consecrated by Fray Miguel Leal de las Alas under the dedication of the Immaculate Conception. By the 19th century, the church was in ruins and abandoned, with the barracks serving as shelter for the garrison. In 1908, the Pisté Chapel was consecrated by Bishop Martín Tristchler y Córdova, beginning a new stage in which the home of Mercedes Hernández was enabled.

In 2010, the first archaeological and historical intervention work was carried out in the center of Pisté, and in June 2021 it was confirmed that the main esplanade, which includes the Chapel and the barracks, functioned as military detachment.

Photos Chapel of the Immaculate Conception in Pisté