A striking Catholic church from the 16th century has resurfaced from the depths of a reservoir in Mexico following a severe drought. The Temple of Santiago, a stone structure situated in the Nezahualcoyotl Reservoir in Chiapas, is now completely exposed due to the low water levels, posing a threat to local fishermen’s livelihoods. This church was constructed by a group of monks led by Friar Bartolome de la Casas, who arrived in the region inhabited by the Zoque people during the mid-16th century in the Quechula locality. It was submerged when the reservoir flooded in 1966.
The Temple of Santiago, also known as the Temple of Quechula, measures 183 feet in length and 42 feet in width, with walls that rise to about 30 feet. The bell tower stands at a height of 48 feet from the ground. Remarkably, the ancient church has maintained its intricate arches, ornamental designs, and handcrafted bricks. Architect Carlos Navarete, who collaborated with Mexican authorities on a report about the structure, suggests that the church was abandoned due to the significant plagues in the late 18th century. The church relied on the nearby monastery of Tecpatan and bears similarities to its architectural style, indicating that it was likely built by the same builder around the same time.
Usually submerged underwater, the land where the church stands has become visible due to the drought. Local residents and visitors now have the opportunity to drive or walk to the site, which remains well-preserved despite being submerged for nearly six decades. Its historical significance stems from its location on the King’s Highway, a road constructed by Spanish conquistadors and utilized until the 20th century. Inside the church, remnants such as choir loft wood and roof beams have been discovered, along with a large ossuary containing the remains of plague victims. Despite its grandeur, the church never became the bustling center it was intended to be and likely only received occasional visits from priests at Tecpatan.
The severe drought in Mexico, which began in March, has resulted in water scarcity throughout the country. The emergence of the church from the reservoir has allowed people to visit it by boat, but now, due to the low water levels, the public can drive or walk to the site. This drought has had a severe impact on local fishermen, like Darinel Gutiérrez, a tilapia farmer, who laments the decline in water levels and the impact it has on his ability to support his family. Mexico has raised concerns about the drought since March, citing inadequate rainfall in recent years. With 52 percent of its territory in an arid or semi-arid climate, Mexico is highly susceptible to droughts, which have become more frequent, intense, and prolonged over the past decade.
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