San Juan Parangaricutiro Church, Mexico

Towns and villages affected by the destructive elements are always a depressing spectacle. The church of San Juan Parangaricutiro is a witness of a devastating natural disaster. The sight is located in the former settlement of the same name in Mexico. In 1944, during an eruption of the Paricutin volcano the town was completely destroyed. The church building is one of the few that managed to survive.

Today, the church is almost completely buried under a layer of lava. Since the disaster, it is abandoned. Surrounded by solidified volcanic cones, the dilapidated building looks very grim. Some travelers say that the church resembles to an ancient building that was restored from ruins. During the disaster mighty lava flows were covering the place; they were several meters thick. Given this, the fact that the altar of the church completely survived after the eruption, seems incredible.

Local residents who survived in the disaster, have founded a new settlement nearby. They called it Nuevo San Juan Parangaricutiro. Several times a year they visit their old deserted church and conduct services. The most massive processions to the church are held on the day of birth of the volcano, which is celebrated before Easter. Huge bundles of flowers that locals bring to the altar on holidays, make the half-ruined church less grim. Tours to this sight are very popular among tourists. Next - Kolmanskop