The church was relocated from the original El Peñol site, which is now situated at the bottom of the Guatapé reservoir.
The interior altar layout preserves elements salvaged from the original church prior to the valley's flooding.
The structure serves as a tangible symbol of the town's forced migration and subsequent reconstruction in the late 20th century.
The parish organizes annual religious processions that honor the historical legacy of the submerged town.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Chiquinquirá is the primary Catholic parish located in the town square of El Peñol, Antioquia. The current church structure was built following the relocation of the original town, which was submerged in the late 1970s to create the Peñol-Guatapé hydroelectric reservoir. Its architectural design represents the modern Neoclassical transition common in Antioquian town center reconstructions. The interior features iconography dedicated to the Virgin of Chiquinquirá, the patron saint of Colombia. The building serves as the religious focal point for local community events and traditional patron saint festivities. Its construction marks a significant cultural shift for the inhabitants displaced by the dam project.
From the center of the main park facing the church, capturing both the facade and the surrounding colonial-style town architecture.
Visit during the early morning to observe the local community life before the tourist crowds arrive from nearby Guatapé.
Take time to notice the contrast between the church's traditional facade and the modern layout of the surrounding town square.
Do not treat the church as a mere photo backdrop; it remains an active place of worship for the local population.
Maintain a quiet demeanor; remove hats upon entering and ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
