Daily Postcard: Nestled in the village of Chimayo along the High Road to Taos sits a national historic landmark, El Santuario de Chimayo. The sanctuary is well known for the unusual legend of its creation and as a present-day pilgrimage site. It receives almost 300,000 visitors per year and has been called ‘no doubt the most important Catholic pilgrimage center in the United States.’ It is also often called the ‘Lourdes of America’ for its magical healing soil. In the small prayer room next to the sanctuary is a round hole filled with this soil. In fact, many come to the church in pursuit of this soil, hoping to find a cure for their afflictions. Courtesy photo

COMMUNITY News:

SANTA FE—During the week of Good Friday, thousands of pilgrims, or “peregrinos” will walk through Northern New Mexico to the Santuario de Chimayó, a revered Roman Catholic church. All are welcome to participate in the tradition, which is more than 200 years old, and attracts more than 30,000 people who may walk day or night along major roadways to get there.

To support pilgrims and visitors, the North Central RTD Blue Bus provides special and regular service options, with route information available on its website.

Most participants will begin their walk sometime on Thursday, April 2. Many will walk through the night, while others will be dropped off closer to the historic village of Chimayó during the morning on Friday, April 3. The New Mexico Department of Transportation will install temporary signs to help guide walkers along the safest and most accessible paths.

The pedestrian route follows parts of U.S. Highway 84/285, NM 503, Juan Medina Road leading to Chimayó, and NM 76 from Española to Chimayó, with temporary signs installed by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) to help guide walkers along the safest and most accessible paths. A more detailed map shows locations of Blue Bus stops, first aid stations, and porta potties.

Public safety personnel from across the region are collaborating to support the event. Motorists are cautioned to be aware and anticipate delays throughout the week, and especially on Good Friday. Extra patrols will be in effect.

For additional information, see the safety tips below, visit the Santa Fe County Pilgrimage Checklist, and watch the Santa Fe County Fire Department’s video.

Safety tips for walkers:

• What to wear
• Wear light-colored clothing that’s easier for motorists to see.
• Wear reflective clothing, such as a bright vest, sash, or reflective bracelets.
• Add blinking lights or flashlights to be more visible.
• Wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes.

What to bring

• Weather can change rapidly. Bring appropriate clothing layers, sunscreen, a hat, and other items to help protect you from the elements.
• Bring water and snacks and stay hydrated. Portable restrooms will be available along the route.
• Bring a walking stick or hiking poles to help with uneven terrain.
• Bring a map of your route.
• Carry a first aid kit.

Other tips

• Walk in groups to help with visibility to motorists, and for support, if needed.
• Follow posted signage. NMDOT posts signage along the major pedestrian routes to help guide participants to safer areas.
• Be aware that cell phones may not work everywhere along the route.
• Choose locations and times for pick-up and drop-off in advance.
• Coordinate your check-in points in advance.
• Inform someone of your planned route and expected arrival time in advance.
• Be aware of the high elevation. Visitors from lower elevations may find traveling at high elevations causes difficulty breathing and fatigue.

Route map for the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary de Chimayo. Courtesy/SF County