Atotonilco, a small town in the Guanajuato countryside, is a traditional pilgrimage town dominated by the fortified, 18th-century Sanctuary of Atotonilco church. Recently restored murals depicting biblical scenes and quotes adorn the ornate baroque building’s nave and chapels.
Because of the Holiday, the Main Street was lined with vendors selling handicrafts and food.
Bikers in the church plaza – awaiting the procession?
The procession with the image of the Virgin accompanied by masked revelers setting off firecrackers.
We had lunch of the thick corn tortillas stopped with fresh cheese and nopal (cactus). These particular tortillas were made with corn containing the huitlacoche fungus, from the indigenous Nahuatl language (pronounced weet-la-KOH-chay). It’s been called the Mexican truffle, and a “food of the gods.” The unique, earthy taste has been part of local cuisine since Aztec times. Evidently the cultivation of huitlacoche is skyrocketing, as urban Mexicans are regaining an appreciation of foods native to their country.
We had some difficulty finding the “Escondido” (hidden) gallery, but it was well worth the persistence.
I have just loved this trip. You’re so fortunate to have a friend there. Gorgeous photos, as usual.