Sanctuary of Atotonilco, Mexico

When we pulled into Atotonilco and I was shocked at how small this town was.

The biggest thing in the town is the church.

The Sanctuary of Atotonilco is actually word renowned.

Inside it is totally covered in murals.

We were overwhelmed with the amazing artwork.

I don't understand why many Catholic Churches have statues of Jesus in pain and covered in blood!?!?!

I would love for someone to fill me in...

This church was built in 1812!

Do you see how huge this place is??

Stephen and I look like "Little People"! 

I thought it was interesting that the church was so elaborate, but the pews were basic HARD wood!

Outside there were about 10 people begging.

It is sad to see, but at the same time, it is VERY normal in Mexico to have beggars outside of churches and tourist buildings.

Stephen just can not be serious for one minute.

Noni took a couple of pictures, but they all have Stephen making silly faces.

We went into the small store connected to the church. The nuns were selling handmade items, books about the church, and other religious items.

This is some of the things they were selling.

These two boys were cracking us up.

They were begging for money, but then they took off to play.

A photographer was there taking pictures of the church and he tried to take these boys picture.

Every time he raised his camera the boys ran in separate directions.

Then they laughed and came back, he asked them to take their picture and they said yes.

As soon as he raised his camera they giggled and ran off in separate directions.