Chimayo A Tradition of Faith - Public Reception

Celebrate "Chimayó: A Tradition of Faith" at the New Mexico History Museum, Palace of the Governors, Room 14 & Little Portal

Public Reception: Saturday, April 26, 2025, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Admission to the museum is free all day, including to the reception

The New Mexico History Museum invites the public to a special reception celebrating the opening of its new exhibition, "Chimayó: A Tradition of Faith," on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The reception, hosted by the Women’s Board of the Museum Foundation of New Mexico, will mark the official launch of this compelling exhibition, which runs from April 12, 2025, to May 31, 2027.

"Chimayó: A Tradition of Faith" delves into the rich history and enduring spiritual significance of the annual pilgrimage to the Santuario de Chimayó, a site that draws the largest religious pilgrimage in the United States during Holy Week. The exhibition features the powerful photographic documentation of this living tradition by Sam Howarth, Miguel Gandert, Oscar Lozoya, and Cary Herz, along with insights from oral historians Dr. Enrique R. Lamadrid and Troy Fernández.

Visitors will experience the essence of the pilgrimage and discover the profound stories of faith and hope that draw thousands to Chimayó each year. The exhibition also includes a recreation of the Santuario’s ex-voto rooms, showcasing the diverse offerings left by pilgrims, from religious art to personal mementos.

"All are welcome on the pilgrimage," says Cathy Notarnicola, Curator of Southwest History. "Young children, adults, and the elderly walk to the Santuario de Chimayó from as far away as Albuquerque or Santa Fe to remember family members, seek blessings, and obtain the healing ’holy earth.’ They are united in spirit on this journey."

Join us for this special public reception to celebrate the opening of "Chimayó: A Tradition of Faith" and explore the deep spiritual connections that make Chimayó a unique and enduring pilgrimage site.

Activities:

- Welcome by Billy G. Garrett, Executive director and remarks by Cathy Notarnicola, Curator of Southwesy History

- Visitors will have the chance to write their own reflections or prayers, similar to the ex-votos, or offerings, left at the Santuario with hand-pressed cards from the Palace Press

- Special guest author Patricia Trujillo-Oviedo will attend the event and sign copies of her book, “Images of America: Chimayó,” which will be available for purchase at the museum gift shop.

- Light refreshments will be offered by the Women’s Board. 

Image Credit: Arrival at the Santuario, 1996. Sam Howarth, Photographer. Palace of the Governors Photo Archives Collection. New Mexico History Museum/Department of Cultural Affairs Neg # HP.2024.14.14