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Church · Mexcaltitán, Nayarit
Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
The church in Mexcaltitán’s central square, from the 19th century, dedicated to the island’s patron saints. On June 28 and 29, the saints’ festival includes a boat regatta that carries their images around the lagoon.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
The Temple of San Pedro y San Pablo is Mexcaltitán’s church and is located in the island’s central square, facing the Museo del Origen. The building dates from the 19th century and is at the heart of the town’s religious and social life.
San Pedro and San Pablo are the patron saints of a community that lives from fishing. On June 28 and 29, the island celebrates them with masses, music and a regatta: two teams of boats, each carrying the image of one of the saints, race across the lagoon. The tradition asks the saint for a good shrimp fishing season.
The square around the temple is the point from which the island’s streets radiate. From them you can reach the water’s edge in a few minutes, where the fishermen’s boats are moored.
Outside the festival, the temple is a quiet place for a pause during a walk around the island.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About half an hour, plus time to walk around the square.
Best time
Any day, in the morning or afternoon. On June 28 and 29 the patrons’ festival takes place, with the regatta; at that time the island receives more visitors.
How to get there
It is in the island’s central square, facing the Museo del Origen.
Tip
If you go in June, check the regatta time in the village itself: it is usually the busiest moment of the festival.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
When is the San Pedro y San Pablo festival in Mexcaltitán?
On June 28 and 29, with masses and a boat regatta that carries the patrons’ images around the lagoon.
What is Mexcaltitán’s regatta like?
Two teams of boats, each carrying the image of one of the saints, compete in a race across the lagoon. The tradition asks for a good shrimp fishing season.
How old is Mexcaltitán’s church?
From the 19th century. It is in the central square, facing the Museo del Origen.