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Overview
El Señor Original is one of the most beloved and venerated religious images in the municipality of San José de Gracia, Aguascalientes. Considered the spiritual protector of the community, this image of the crucified Christ holds a special place in the faith and identity of local residents, who have preserved their devotion for generations. Its presence is closely connected to the history of the old town that disappeared after the construction of the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam and to the rebirth of the present-day community.
According to popular tradition, the image mysteriously arrived in old San José de Gracia inside a box carried by a mule whose owner was unknown. After wandering through the streets of the town, the animal stopped in front of the church, where residents discovered the image and welcomed it with deep devotion. From that moment on, the Christ became known as El Señor Original, becoming a symbol of hope and faith for the people of the region.
Today, El Señor Original is one of the municipality’s main religious symbols and forms part of the spiritual heritage of San José de Gracia. Its story is closely linked to that of the Broken Christ, as both devotions represent the strength, faith, and ability to rise again of a community marked by the disappearance of its former town and the construction of a new one. Thousands of worshippers and visitors come each year to pay tribute to this image and discover one of the most cherished traditions of Aguascalientes.
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History
The history of El Señor Original is one of the most cherished and meaningful stories of San José de Gracia. According to oral tradition, several centuries ago, a mule with no known owner arrived in the town carrying a wooden box. After wandering through the streets for several days, the animal stopped in front of the entrance to the church. Intrigued by the event, the residents opened the box and discovered a beautiful image of the crucified Christ. Amazed by the discovery, they rang the church bells and welcomed the image with songs, prayers, and a profound expression of faith. From that moment on, it became known as El Señor Original and eventually became the most beloved and venerated image in the community.
Over the years, devotion to El Señor Original grew deeply among the people of San José de Gracia. Residents turned to the image to entrust their harvests, ask for protection for their families, and give thanks for favors received. During the Cristero War and later with the construction of the Presidente Calles Dam, which led to the disappearance of the old town in 1928, the image of El Señor Original became a symbol of hope and strength for displaced families, accompanying them in the founding of the new San José de Gracia.
For generations, El Señor Original has remained the spiritual heart of the municipality. Devotion to the image continues to thrive among local residents and the thousands of pilgrims who visit San José de Gracia, forming an essential part of the town’s religious and cultural identity. Together, the stories of El Señor Original and the Broken Christ represent the spirit of faith, hope, and resilience that characterizes this mountain community of Aguascalientes.
Schedule
**Temple Opening Hours** Monday to Sunday 🕗 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. **Regular Mass Schedule** **Monday** 🕖 7:00 p.m. **Tuesday** 🕖 7:00 p.m. **Wednesday** 🕖 7:00 p.m. **Thursday** 🕗 8:00 a.m. **Friday** 🕖 7:00 p.m. **Saturday** 🕗 8:00 p.m. **Sunday** 🕗 8:00 a.m. 🕐 1:00 p.m. 🕗 8:00 p.m. Schedules may vary during Holy Week, Christmas, and patron saint festivities. **Confession Hours** 🙏 Generally before evening services and during special festivities. **Patron Saint Festivities** Holy Week and traditional celebrations of San José de Gracia 🎉 During the festivities, the following activities are held: Pilgrimages and rosaries. Traditional processions. Solemn Masses. Community celebrations. Cultural and religious events.
Recommendations
1. Discover the most beloved religious image of San José de Gracia El Señor Original is the municipality’s main symbol of faith. Take a few moments to contemplate the image and learn about the tradition that tells of its mysterious arrival in the town inside a box carried by a mule with no known owner.
2. Explore the Historic Center and the Parish of San José Take advantage of your visit to walk around the main square and visit the Parish of San José, where the image is preserved. The peaceful atmosphere and hospitality of the local residents allow visitors to fully enjoy this Magical Town.
3. Complement your experience with the Broken Christ San José de Gracia is home to one of Mexico’s major religious tourism destinations. After visiting El Señor Original, continue your journey to the Sanctuary of the Broken Christ and enjoy a boat ride across the Plutarco Elías Calles Dam.
4. Experience the town’s religious festivities and traditions Patron saint celebrations and Holy Week are ideal times to discover the deep devotion of the local community. Respectfully participating in religious activities offers a better understanding of the spiritual identity of San José de Gracia.
5. Enjoy the local cuisine and mountain landscapes Be sure to try traditional pacholas and quince sweets. You can also complement your visit with a trip to Boca de Túnel Adventure Park and admire the mountainous landscapes surrounding the municipality.
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