El Santuario de Chimayó Church is often called the “Lourdes of America” because of the belief that the holy dirt found within the church grounds has healing properties. Many pilgrims come to the sanctuary seeking physical, emotional, or spiritual healing, often carrying small bags to collect the sacred dirt. Stories of miraculous recoveries and deep personal transformations are a common part of the pilgrimage tradition.
The pilgrimage to el Santuario de Chimayó Church attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, particularly around Holy Week and Good Friday – we recommend you start planning now! This holy site is just minutes from our Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico, making it an incredibly convenient and accessible location for pilgrims. Whether walking the route or driving to the historic El Santuario de Chimayó this winter, you’ll find the peaceful grounds and exceptional hospitality at our Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico the perfect complement to your journey.
El Santuario de Chimayó Church is located in the charming village of Chimayó, situated on the High Road to Taos between the major towns of Santa Fe and Taos. In addition to being the home of this famed sacred site, the town of Chimayó is also home to a diverse network of artisans and a fantastic place to find one-of-a-kind goods authentic to New Mexico. The town is most notable for the famed Chimayó weavers – there are even weaving classes you can take while you’re here if you’re looking for a truly authentic way to connect with our local culture.
Beyond being conveniently located near El Santuario, our Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico offers a quiet space for relaxation and contemplation. Whether you’re participating in the pilgrimage or not, it’s the perfect retreat after a day of spiritual reflection at El Santuario de Chimayó. Many guests appreciate the Inn’s serene, almost meditative ambiance —it’s one of the many reasons our highly reviewed Inn is rated as one of the best places to stay in New Mexico.
Whether the pilgrimage is on your radar for 2025 or not, we hope you take the time to explore Chimayó and other charming New Mexico mountain towns like ours. As an ideal home base and unbeatable place to stay, there’s no better time to book a room at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico!
Visit El Santuario de Chimayó Church
Each year, thousands of visitors are drawn to the historic El Santuario de Chimayó Church, one of New Mexico’s most significant landmarks and a deeply cherished pilgrimage site. With over 300,000 annual visitors, including approximately 30,000 during Holy Week, the church stands as a powerful symbol of faith, history, and culture in the region. Built in 1810, this church has a rich heritage that captivates both pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
For many, the journey to El Santuario de Chimayó Church is more than just a visit—it’s a deeply personal experience. Pilgrims often travel on foot, with some walking from as far away as Albuquerque to honor vows, seek blessings, or connect with their spiritual roots. The devotion of these travelers underscores the church’s profound importance in the hearts of those who visit.
At the heart of the pilgrimage is the church’s famed “Tierra Bendita,” or holy dirt, located in a small room known as el pocito. This sacred dirt, gathered from the nearby hills, is believed to have healing properties, offering comfort and hope to those seeking relief from physical or emotional hardships. Many visitors leave with a renewed sense of peace and stories of deeply moving experiences.
While Holy Week is a particularly special time to visit El Santuario de Chimayó Church, the site welcomes visitors year-round. The church also plays host to a variety of cultural and religious events, adding even more reasons to explore its vibrant legacy. Events such as the Española Fiestas, Danzas Aztecas, Las Posadas, and Los Matachines offer unique insights into the traditions and community surrounding this beloved landmark.
Whether seeking spiritual renewal or exploring New Mexico’s historic treasures, El Santuario de Chimayó Church is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
A Peaceful Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico
Chimayó is located in a rich historical and cultural landscape, with numerous sites that reflect its Spanish colonial, Native American, and modern history – and it’s all just minutes from our Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico. Whether you’re interested in religious history, Native American culture, or Spanish Colonial architecture, there are plenty of places to go and things to do.
In addition to your pilgrimage to El Santuario de Chimayó Church, there are nearby museums like El Rancho de las Golondrinas Museum, not to mention plenty of fascinating sites to explore in the surrounding area. From the historic Taos Pueblo to Bandelier National Monument, we’d love to help you embrace the history and culture of this incredible area.
Casa Escondida is a small, locally owned Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico, offering a more intimate experience than larger hotels. This cozy environment allows guests to feel like they are part of a family, providing a sense of comfort and warmth that can be especially meaningful during a pilgrimage to El Santuario de Chimayó Church. The beauty of the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez Mountains and expansive desert landscapes surrounds our Bed and Breakfast in New Mexico. This natural setting offers a peaceful escape and helps visitors connect with the land, adding to the sense of tranquility so you can focus on your personal faith journey.
Our commitment to providing an exceptional experience extends to our guest rooms. Each of our nine guest rooms has been thoughtfully designed to encapsulate the essence of New Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll find yourself immersed in traditional New Mexican decor, with spacious living areas that invite relaxation and rejuvenation.
We offer a unique combination of peace, seclusion, and welcoming hospitality, making it an ideal place to stay during a pilgrimage to Chimayó. Reflect, rest, and recharge with us this spring. Reserve your room today!