After the arrival of the Spanish and until the 20th century, the population was sparse around today’s Playa del Carmen. When it grew as a result of trade in mahogany and later gum resin, religious services were performed by missionaries and then priests from Cozumel. Fr Juan Amezcua is credited with building this humble white Catholic church. He named it Nuestra Señora del Carmen Chapel. Our Lady of Mount Carmen is the Virgin Mary’s title as patron for the Carmelite Order. Masses here are a quintessential Mexican experience. The chapel can also be reserved for destination weddings. Hopefully, you will be lucky enough to hear a performance by their 150 member choir and orchestra.
