Santuario de Plateros Guide
Santuario de Plateros: A Sanctuary of Miracles and Faith Guide
The Santuario de Plateros, officially known as the Santuario del Santo Niño de Atocha, is a renowned Catholic sanctuary located in the small town of Plateros, near Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico. It is dedicated to the Santo Niño de Atocha, a depiction of the Child Jesus, and is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Mexico, known for its countless stories of miracles and answered prayers. The history of the Santuario de Plateros dates back to the 19th century. The image of the Santo Niño de Atocha was originally venerated in the nearby town of Fresnillo. During a period of intense mining activity in Plateros, miners began to attribute miraculous interventions to the Santo Niño, leading to the construction of a dedicated sanctuary. Over time, the sanctuary grew in popularity, attracting pilgrims from all over Mexico and beyond. The sanctuary is particularly known for the tradition of leaving shoes for the Santo Niño, as it is believed he wears them out while traveling at night to help those in need. Visitors to the Santuario de Plateros can attend mass, pray before the image of the Santo Niño de Atocha, and explore the beautiful architecture of the sanctuary. The surrounding town of Plateros offers a variety of shops selling religious items, souvenirs, and local crafts. The area is also known for its traditional Mexican cuisine, including dishes like enchiladas mineras (miner's enchiladas) and asado de boda (wedding stew), reflecting the region's rich culinary heritage.
Transportation
The Santuario de Plateros is located near Fresnillo, Zacatecas. The easiest way to reach it is by car or bus from Fresnillo. Buses depart regularly from the Fresnillo bus station to Plateros.