San Cosme Parish: A Mexico City Church Blends Art & Heritage

Parroquia de San Cosme in the San Rafael neighborhood of Mexico City celebrates ten years of restoring its heritage and combining 16th-century art with contemporary sculpture. The church functions as both a community space and a public gallery, recently adding two new sculptural pieces to its collection.

The project began a decade ago as a restoration and architectural beautification program, aiming to showcase contemporary Mexican talent while prompting reflection on social issues. Currently, the parish displays 14 wooden sculptures inside and 17 bronze sculptures in the atrium, including works by three Spanish artists.

Despite a recent theft of pieces inspired by Leonora Carrington and Remedios Varo, the parish continues to build its collection. Its value lies in the dialogue between historical and modern art, starting with a 16th-century altarpiece originally from the San Joaquín de Tacuba Carmelite college. The church aims to continue its cultural preservation and dissemination work in the capital.