Submerged Church Reappears in Chiapas Reservoir

Chiapas, Mexico – A 17th-century church in Chiapas that has been covered by water for more than 50 years has once again shown its façade.

The Santiago Apóstol temple emerged after drought caused water levels to drop in the Nezahualcóyotl reservoir on the Grijalva river.

Drought is currently affecting just over one-fifth of Mexico’s territory including large parts of the southern states of Chiapas and Oaxaca. The Grijalva river catchment area is considered to be in extreme drought.

The church, built by Dominican friars in the town of Quechula in the mid-1600s, was completely submerged in 1966 as a result of the construction of the Nezahualcóyotl dam, which also flooded other nearby towns, forcing residents to relocate.

One rich landowner, Saúl Pérez, is said to have refused to leave his ranch but was forced to do so when water began lapping at his feet. His riches, including 3 chests of gold, were left behind and are believed to be buried under tonnes of sand at the bottom of the dam.

It’s only the third time since the reservoir’s completion that water levels have dropped enough to reveal the entirety of the colonial-era structure.

Despite being under-water for more than half a century – and its age – the façade of the church is in relatively good condition. However, its walls collapsed during the powerful 8.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Chiapas in September 2017.

“It’s now falling to pieces,” local resident Antonio González Hernández told EFE. “Five years ago [the structure] was intact. The bell tower was still in optimal condition.”

González said the church will disappear again during the rainy season, which runs from June to December. He explained that the water level dropped by 60 meters this year.

While the emergence of the church attracts tourists to the dam, bringing much-needed revenue into the region, the low water levels are causing problems for fishermen.

Osiel Álvarez Hernández said that catches have been down and that tree trunks in the water have damaged boats’ motors.

Located north of the Chiapas state capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the Nezahualcóyotl reservoir was the first of several major dams to be built on the Grijalva river to generate hydroelectric energy.

Who says Five Star Services along with great value can’t go hand in hand?  Let Casa Bay Villas help you find that special vacation villa rental just perfect for you.

We represent the best quality of homes for rent by owners who care about your comfort and hope you return for many years of unforgettable Mexican holidays. 

We specialize in the luxury villa vacation rentals in Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita Mexico.  Our villas are spacious yet intimate with personal staff to pamper your every need.  Whether you are planning a destination wedding celebration, a vacation with family or just getting away with friends, let us show you the beauty of Puerto Vallarta in your own private villa vacation rental.

Your vacation time is valuable and that is why we inspect every property we represent for the owners and we are familiar with the accommodations, amenities, and staff to help you select the best rental property in Puerto Vallarta.  The results…vacation rentals that won’t leave you with unwanted surprises. 

Relax and experience the charm and culture of Puerto Vallarta with quaint cobblestone streets, the fragrant scent of Bougainvillea, beautiful beaches, Mexican cuisine, outstanding golf courses and a host of activities for everyone to enjoy!  

Our private rental homes and condos offer a full range of services during your stay from full staff services including a chef who will prepare two meals a day.

Our concierge services will personally contact you with information on activities, tours or spa services in the privacy of your own villa rental, to the best restaurants for dining out in Puerto Vallarta. We have the most current information to guide you for your holiday in Puerto Vallarta from our daily weather report to maps and directions.   

For more information about renting a villa in Puerto Vallarta contact Casa Bay Villas at info@puntamitaluxuryvillarentals.com or call us at 203.386.8022.

We hope you will visit one of our featured vacation rental villas soon and experience the Magic of Puerto Vallarta!

Our mission at Casa Bay Villas is to exceed your expectations, listen to your needs and to assist you in selecting the best villa rental for your vacation in Puerto Vallarta Mexico.