Mexico City, July 15 – Abogados Cristianos Hispanoamérica has called for the recovery of three bronze sculptures stolen from the historic Santos Cosme y Damián parish in Mexico City, and for an investigation into the incident at this significant temple. The organization also emphasized the need to strengthen the protection of the artistic and religious heritage of churches.
Theft from Historic Parish Prompts Urgent Call for Action
The robbery, which took place during the early hours of July 7, involved a person breaking the padlock and chain of the main gate to access the church’s atrium. Three bronze artworks, described as having high historical, artistic, and spiritual value, were then stolen. While a suspect was later apprehended, the sculptures have not yet been recovered.
Stolen Works: Angels, a Child, and a Remedios Varo-Inspired Piece
Among the stolen pieces are two sculptures of angels holding a child, created as a tribute to children who died from cancer. The third artwork, inspired by the Spanish artist Remedios Varo, was part of a restoration and beautification project initiated in 2004 by the parish priest. Bronze plaques explaining the significance of each sculpture were also removed during the theft.
Father José de Jesús Aguilar, the parish priest, publicly reported the incident and shared surveillance camera footage to aid in identifying the perpetrator.
Call to Strengthen Protection of Religious Heritage
Abogados Cristianos Hispanoamérica has urged Mexico City authorities to take immediate action to recover the works before they can be destroyed or melted down. The organization also called for a comprehensive investigation and criminal prosecution of those responsible. Furthermore, it proposed the creation of a specific protocol to protect the artistic heritage of churches in Mexico City and prevent future thefts from religious buildings.
The organization stressed that the preservation of these pieces extends beyond religious significance, forming an integral part of the country’s historical and cultural heritage.
Santos Cosme y Damián Parish: Over Three Centuries of History
Founded in 1672, the Santos Cosme y Damián parish is one of the oldest temples in the capital and a key part of the historic center of Mexico City. Beyond its architectural value, the site held importance during the viceregal era as a departure point for missionaries traveling from New Spain to the Philippines.
According to Abogados Cristianos Hispanoamérica, attacks against religious temples, including robberies, desecrations, and arsons, have increased across the country. This trend underscores the necessity of strengthening protective measures to safeguard this cultural heritage. The organization highlighted that these incidents not only affect religious communities but also represent a loss for the nation’s collective history and art.
Official Statements and Ongoing Efforts
While authorities have acknowledged the incident and the detention of a suspect, the focus remains on the recovery of the stolen sculptures. The call from Abogados Cristianos Hispanoamérica adds to the public pressure for a swift resolution and enhanced security for cultural sites.
The incident has reignited discussions among cultural heritage experts and religious leaders about the vulnerability of historical sites and the need for more robust security protocols. The value of these artworks, both monetary and symbolic, makes their recovery a priority for both the church and the broader community.
The parish of Santos Cosme y Damián continues to serve its community, even as the search for its stolen treasures continues. The hope is that through concerted efforts, these significant pieces of art and history will be returned to their rightful place.
Source: sociedad-noticias.com
