The Assumption of the Mother of God
In the center of the main altarpiece in the church attached to the ex-monastery of Mocochá, there is a much-revered statue of the Virgin Mary in her invocation as Our Lady of the Assumption, which provides the name of the parish.
The beauty of the statue is accentuated by the main reredos and two lateral altarpieces flanking it, all three carved from wood during the first half of the 18th century, and placed in the midst of a forest of Solomonic columns, creating an atmosphere that allows us a glimpse of Colonial-era religiosity and mysticism.
We do not know when the statue was made, nor where, nor by whom, but its stylistic features suggest some time in the 18th century.
The statue of this particular invocation of Mary excites especial devotion among the villagers, who attribute miracles to her, and demonstrate their faith above all on her feast day, when they give thanks for prayers answered.
The image of the Virgin Mary, forearms and hands raised in a gesture of adoration, wears an expression that radiates serenity, giving the piece a particular beauty which is set off by the elegance of the various gowns she wears for different occasions.
This venerated statue can be admired during the times of religious services in the church.
Mocochá celebrates the festival in honor of Our Lady of the Assumption with religious services and popular events from the 3rd to the 15th of April each year.
Pedro Mena Díaz, auxiliary bishop of Yucatan, has for some years resided in the ex-monastery at Mocochá, where the church houses this Marian jewel of Peninsular art.
Mocochá is located some 26 kilometers (16 miles) northeast of Merida. The etymology of its name is somewhat uncertain: according to the Cordemex Maya Dictionary, it means “knotted water” from moc, a knot and ha, water agua. On the other hand, the Dictionary of Yucatecan Spanish states that it should be “reflection of a knot in the water”, from moc, och(el), shadow or reflection, and ha.
Location