La Ruta del Peregrino, which translates as Pilgrim's Route, is a stretch of land that covers 117 kilometers in Jalisco, Mexico.
History of the Pilgrimage
Every year there are approximately two million who partake in the pilgrimage through the different states of Mexico. This religious phenomenon has people walking through mountain ranges, approximately 2000 metres above sea level. The walk starts in Jalisco in the town of Ameca, from there the participants ascend to el Cerro des Obispo and cross the peak of Espinazo del Diablo, finally descending back to the final destination of Talpa de Allende where they meet the Virgin of Talpa. This procession shows an act of devotion, faith and gratitude.
The religious voyage has been occurring since the 17th Century, the pilgrims display their faith through an act of penitence as the conditions of the journey are tough. This sacrifice has become a ritual of purification.
Architecture
The project consists of a series of architectural interventions dotted along the historical route. The intention is to provide better conditions for the pilgrims while also taking advantage of the social and economic impact this event has on the area.
La Ruta del Peregrino has become a sustainable site with a complete masterplan that integrates infrastructure and iconic architecture embedded into the religious ritual. Beyond that is aims to bring in a broader audience and make the treacherous route have more flow.
Tatiana Bilbao was head designer providing a masterplan while each landmark was assigned to a different designer. The final collection become intertwined as part of a bigger scheme.
Gratitude Open Chapel
The Gratitude Open Chapel was designed by Tatiana Bilbao in collaboration with Dellekamp Arquitectos.
The religious site features concrete planes arranged to form a loose structure, yet still remaining open to the elements.