The Artistic Legacy of Don Miguel López in the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Church is one of the most recognizable symbols of our destination. Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, this church is one of the most significant and important religious monuments in the Banderas Bay and its surroundings.

Given its importance, the Vallarta Lifestyles editorial team has consistently presented content that highlights the unique features of this emblematic church, situated right in front of the Plaza de Armas. This is no exception.

Earlier this year, Mrs. Martha Corbelle, a prominent reader of our publication, contacted our editorial team to share the story of her grandfather, Mr. Miguel López Cortez, who created a series of carved woodworks to adorn the interior of the church. “Between 1947 and 1948, my dear grandfather, affectionately known as Papá Miguel, created the pulpit, the confessionals, and the communion rail. At that time, the church was under the direction of Father Rafael Parra” (1942-1966), she explains.

Pulpit.

“Papá Miguel was born in 1889 in Huachinango, Jalisco. His wooden works spread over several churches in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Tijuana. In addition, he created numerous pieces of carved wood art that we still have. The most remarkable thing is that he did all this magnificent work with only one eye, having lost the other one at the age of 40 due to cancer,” she adds proudly.

Although Mr. Miguel López Cortez passed away in 1983, his work and legacy lives on in our destination and in other cities in Mexico.

Confessionals.

The Our Lady of Guadalupe Church captivates not only with its impressive architectural beauty, combining neoclassical and Renaissance styles, but also with the art and history it holds within its walls.

Mr. Miguel López Cortez.