03 de Diciembre
Temple of Saint Lucy, San Cristóbal de Las Casas
In Chiapas, devotion to Saint Lucy holds a special place in the religious calendar, particularly in the Pueblo Mágico of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, where thousands gather each year to honor the patron saint of those who suffer from blindness and eye diseases. According to tradition, Saint Lucy—originally from Sicily and martyred for her faith—lost her eyes during the persecution of early Christians, becoming a symbol of unwavering faith.
Festivities begin on December 3 with the traditional mudada de la Virgen, in which her new garments are carried in procession to the temple to be blessed and then placed on the image. The Virgin then tours the neighborhood, announcing the start of the celebrations. From December 4 to 12, nightly novenas take place; on the 12th, a serenade is offered, and the main square is closed to traffic to allow the community to participate in the festivities. On the morning of December 13, the traditional mañanitas are sung, followed by Mass and community activities. Music groups perform outside the temple, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Faithful devotees are invited to bring flowers and light candles in honor of the saint.
Saint Lucy is also celebrated in other municipalities such as Amatenango del Valle—world-renowned for its pottery—and Villa Comaltitlán in the Soconusco region. In these communities, the image of the saint is dressed in traditional local attire, a cultural expression that draws visitors eager to witness this unique manifestation of faith and heritage.
Festivities begin on December 3 with the traditional mudada de la Virgen, in which her new garments are carried in procession to the temple to be blessed and then placed on the image. The Virgin then tours the neighborhood, announcing the start of the celebrations. From December 4 to 12, nightly novenas take place; on the 12th, a serenade is offered, and the main square is closed to traffic to allow the community to participate in the festivities. On the morning of December 13, the traditional mañanitas are sung, followed by Mass and community activities. Music groups perform outside the temple, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Faithful devotees are invited to bring flowers and light candles in honor of the saint.
Saint Lucy is also celebrated in other municipalities such as Amatenango del Valle—world-renowned for its pottery—and Villa Comaltitlán in the Soconusco region. In these communities, the image of the saint is dressed in traditional local attire, a cultural expression that draws visitors eager to witness this unique manifestation of faith and heritage.
