JUCHITÁN.- After nearly eight years of recovery following the devastating 2017 earthquakes, the vibrant cultural scene of Juchitán, Oaxaca, is celebrating the reopening of two of its most cherished landmarks: the Casa de Cultura (House of Culture) and the Parroquia de San Vicente Ferrer (Parish of San Vicente Ferrer). The restoration project, officially unveiled on Friday, January 17, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the community's healing and revitalization.
Representing President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Secretary of Culture Claudia Curiel de Icaza joined Governor Salomón Jara Cruz, INAH Director General Diego Prieto Hernández, and Juchitán Mayor Miguel Sánchez Altamirano for the reopening ceremonies. Curiel de Icaza emphasized the importance of these spaces as centers of art, memory, music, and community spirit for the people of Juchitán.
"We will continue working not only to restore these buildings, but also to revitalize native languages and create cultural circuits that give back to Oaxaca," Curiel de Icaza stated, recognizing the state's rich cultural contributions to the nation. She also highlighted the unique artistic and cultural richness of Oaxaca, from its talented young musicians to its impressive pre-Hispanic collections and the legacy of renowned artist Francisco Toledo.
Governor Jara Cruz expressed gratitude for the National Reconstruction Program (PNR), which allocated approximately two billion pesos for the reconstruction of historic buildings, including temples, across the state. "Almost eight years after this tragedy, Oaxaca is standing, Juchitán is standing," he declared.
Prieto Hernández praised the dedication of the architects, restorers, archaeologists, and other INAH personnel who worked tirelessly since the immediate aftermath of the 2017 earthquakes. He noted that restoration efforts are now complete in seven of the eleven affected states, proving that recovery of historical heritage and vernacular housing is possible, even when initial reactions suggested demolition.
Following the formal ceremonies, experts involved in the reconstruction led tours of both sites. At the Casa de Cultura (Lidxi Guendabiaani in Zapotec), visitors witnessed the extensive work undertaken, including foundation restructuring, column and wall consolidation, roof system repairs, and improvements to plaster and paint. The building, dating back to the 19th century, has served as a witness to both evangelization and, since its transformation into a cultural center in 1972 thanks to Francisco Toledo's efforts, artistic and educational development.
The tour then proceeded to the 17th-century Parroquia de San Vicente Ferrer, a site deeply venerated in the community. The 2017 earthquake caused significant damage to the church, including the total collapse of the east bell tower, severe fractures in the west tower, and cracks in the vault, buttresses, and presbytery dome. Restoration efforts included rebuilding the bell towers with seismic-resistant systems and consolidating all damaged structural sections using compatible materials. Careful attention was paid to the dismantling, safekeeping, cleaning, and preventive conservation of valuable movable assets, including altarpieces, sculptures, panel paintings, and historic bells. Stratigraphic surveys also helped locate and protect remnants of mural paintings.
These completed projects, part of the PNR, represent the final stages of addressing the damage inflicted on 3,269 heritage sites across Mexico by the 2017 earthquakes. They stand as testaments to the resilience of communities and the importance of preserving historical and cultural heritage for future generations, fostering both historical awareness and a strong sense of belonging.
