Templo Votivo de Maipú (11/18)

One of the Must See places from our list is Maipu Temple (unfortunately pronounced, "My-poo"). This temple was built in commemoration of a battle fought in Chile's liberty struggle. The battle, fought on the grounds of the temple on April 5, 1818, sealed Chilean independence from Spain and the two liberators, General Bernado O'higgins from Chile and General Jose? San Martin from Argentina, decided then and there to construct a temple in honor of the virgen Maria del Carmen who had helped them win. Maria del Carmen was also named the patron saint of Chile and still holds that position today. Construction of the temple began in November 1818, but only a couple of brick walls remain from that structure due to an intense earthquake in 1906. The current temple was built from 1943 to 1974.

Curiously, we noticed right away that there were flags from many nations hung around the alter. There is a passage as well that one may walk to go behind the alter to the virgen. Many people say prayers and kiss her ribbons. Full of stained glass, the temple has an ambience generated by the colors eminating from it.

Deb and I also took a spin through the museum, Museo Maria del Carmen, which is connected (and under the sactuary, I think). There were items such as embroidered clergy attire, swords and gifts from ambassadors from other countries, presidential buggies, signed documents and furnishing from wealthy colonial families. Definitely worth the dollar we paid to get in.

An ever baffling question that plagues me concerns the Catholic Church. How can they build these huge structures and guard incredible relics when just outside their door there are hungry, poor, and needy. This church is gigantic and others have been lavishly adorned. I suppose one could say the building is an expression of worship. It certainly is humbling and inspiring.