Church of Caguach facts for kids
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
|---|---|
Church facade
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| Location | Caguach, Quinchao, Chiloé Province, Los Lagos Region, Chile |
| Part of | Churches of Chiloé |
| Criteria | Cultural: (ii), (iii) |
| Inscription | 2000 (24th Session) |
The Iglesia de Caguach (which means Church of Caguach in English) is a special Catholic church. It is located on Caguach Island, which is part of the Chiloé Archipelago in Chile. This church is one of many beautiful old churches in the area. These churches are known together as the Churches of Chiloé.
The first church here was built a long time ago in 1778. Sadly, it burned down in 1919. But people from five nearby villages worked together to rebuild it in 1925. The church honors Jesus of Nazareth. They have a big celebration for him on August 30 and the third Sunday of January. This holiday is very important for the Chiloé islands. The church was named a National Monument of Chile in 2000. It also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the same year.
Contents
What is the History of the Church of Caguach?
The very first church building was finished in 1778. In 1919, a fire completely destroyed this original Church of Caguach. Luckily, the important religious image of Jesus was saved from the fire. The church was rebuilt in 1925. This new church was built by communities from five villages. They had all agreed to help with the rebuilding. This 1925 building is the third church built on Caguach Island in Quinchao.
What is the Feast Day of Jesus of Nazareth?
The church's special protector, or patron, is Jesus of Nazareth. This is also the patron of the Church of Aldachildo. The feast day for Jesus of Nazareth is celebrated on August 30. It is also celebrated on every third Sunday of January. This holiday was first started in 1778. A Spanish missionary named Fray Hilario Martínez encouraged it.
The feast day is considered the most important holiday in the Chiloé Archipelago. The celebration mostly happens at the church. It includes music, dancing, and special parades called processions. Boats travel to the island for the church's celebration. The Castro Port Authority of the Chilean Navy checks these boats.
Why is the Church of Caguach Important?
The church was named a National Monument of Chile in 2000. This means it is a very important historical site in Chile. On November 30, 2000, it was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of sixteen churches that make up the Churches of Chiloé World Heritage Site. This recognition helps protect the church for future generations.
See also
In Spanish: Iglesia de Caguach para niños
