La Iglesia De Nuestra Senora

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At first glance one would think that La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora la Reina de Los Angeles is just another catholic church however after carefully observing both the interior and exterior one realizes its historical significance. The church that is at this site is a replica of the original church that served the first settlers of Los Angeles during the Spanish era of California. The importance of this site has been recognized both by local and state governments which have designated it as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and as a California Historical Landmark. Although it is a historical site it still serves its purpose as a catholic church for a mostly Hispanic congregation. Today it is known as the plaza church because …show more content…

However, it is the small details that reveal its historical significance. On the outside of the church there are several metal placards that reveal the history behind this little church. The interior has a lively yet reverent ambient and the smell of lit candles lingers the air. At the time of my visit the church was crowded mainly with Hispanic families who had attended the Dia de los Muertos celebration at La Placita Olvera. Outside on the courtyard next to the church many people were conversating about their dead relatives and about the celebration itself in a bittersweet manner while they lit candles to place in front of an altar with a dark skinned Christ. Today the average person does not notice the historical value of this church mainly because this church has been rebuilt as a replica of the original church using modern materials, which make it hard to notice its historic …show more content…

La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora la Reina de Los Angeles is currently listed as California Historical Landmark # 144, which shows it importance to the State of California. In addition, in 1962 this historical site was designated as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #3 which consequently demonstrates its importance to the City of Los Angeles. However, this site is not only historically significant. In the 1980’s this church declared itself a sanctuary for Salvadoran refugees facing deportation. In addition, it has become a significant symbol for many Hispanic immigrants living in the city of Los Angeles. More recently Elvira Arellano an immigration activist was arrested on August 19, 2007 and subsequently deported to her native country of Mexico. Finally, its religious value it exceptional as it represents the foundation of the Roman Catholic religion in the city of Los Angeles. In brief, this site’s incomparable historical, cultural, social and religious value makes this site a gem to both the State of California and the City of Los

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