Saints: A Hagiological Reference

In the 16th century one mostly finds saints associated with the three monastic orders which evangelized Mexico, appearing along monastic walls, cloister walks, and church sanctuaries. The 17th century brought new “soldiers of God” to Mexico, introduced by other religious orders and a growing diocesan presence which helped disseminate their familiarity and appeal. By the 18th century saints were ubiquitous in cathedrals, parish churches, hacienda and palace chapels throughout Mexico, appearing in the form of paintings, exterior stone and interior estofado sculpture.