THE TLAQUEPAQUE CHAPEL
The Tlaquepaque Chapel, an oasis of serenity within the Tlaquepaque Village, styled as a private chapel, was built in the early 70’s. Looking through the intricate, wrought iron gates, it is easy to be transported into another day and time. The giant antique doors are flung wide beneath the carved Spanish-style arched doorway. Stained glass windows, set high into authentic walls, dapple the intimate area with colored light. Guests are seated on nine hand-carved leather covered pews.
The white wash stucco walls and tiled floor has a rich feeling of history. The oil painting at the altar of the Tlaquepaque Chapel was commissioned by builder Abe Miller from local Arizona artist Eileen Conn. The stunning work is 11′ by 12′ and features the portraits of St. Augustine, Pope Pius X, Bonaventure, Samuel, Peter and John the Baptist. The gold frame surrounding the oil painting was painted by Abe Miller and his wife. The verse at the bottom of the mural reads “I am the light of the world. He that followith me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life”. Jesus releasing the dove of peace is at the top of the painting.
The Chapel courtyard is an intimate patio containing the grotto of the Lady of Guadalupe transported from Guadalajara, Mexico. At the center of the courtyard, you will find the antique Mexican Cross, obtained by Abe Miller while visiting Mexico in preparation for the building of Tlaquepaque.
