Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe
One of the most unusual attractions in Albuquerque’s Old Town, the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Capilla de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe) has an unusual origin story. Created for the former Sagrada Art School and its students, it was designed and built in the 1970s by Sister Giotto Moots and her fellow nuns, who believed that the location was the planet’s center of creativity. Today, the church is both a tourist attraction and wedding venue.
Tucked away in the Patio Escondido Mall in Old Town Albuquerque, the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a historic landmark that features traditional adobe construction and wooden ceiling beams; it’s an atmospheric place where you can catch your breath during a busy day of sightseeing. Don’t miss some of its highlight features, including its striking, circular stained glass windows (which depict the lunar calendar), its carved wooden panels, and colorful shrine.
The chapel is easy to visit independently, while its supposedly haunted history makes it an essential stop on local ghost tours. It also is a popular wedding venue, and hosts other ceremonies and celebrations, from quinceañeras to baptisms and christenings.
- Owing to its heritage architecture, the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe is not accessible to wheelchairs.
- Be mindful of worshipers, and take care not to disturb those who’ve come to pray.
- Don’t miss the chance to soak up the scenery in the chapel’s pretty outdoor patio area.
- The chapel is free for all to visit, and you don’t need to make reservations in advance.
The Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe is located at Patio Escondido Mall, 404 San Felipe Street NW, Old Town Albuquerque. It’s just a couple minutes off Interstate 40, while local buses, including the 66, 766, and 777, also serve the area.
The Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe is open to visitors 365 days a year. However, do be mindful that it may not be possible to visit if events are being held, such as weddings, baptisms, and other celebrations. Weekends are likely to be busiest.
Once you’ve visited the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe, don’t miss the chance to discover another of Albuquerque’s noteworthy churches: San Felipe de Neri Church. Located right nearby in the Old Town area, the church dates back to the 18th century and is one of the city’s oldest and most exceptional buildings.
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