The Bií Hioxo wind farm contributes to the preservation of Zapotec traditions in Oaxaca, Mexico

Santa Cruz Guelabeñe: 

Situated 10 km away from the city of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Oaxaca, This sanctuary is known as the Dios Lagarto (Lizard God). Its name originates from the presence of a marshy, narrow and verdant river that once served as a habitat for the local lizard population. 

The exact origins of this tradition remain uncertain; nonetheless, the devotees of Santa Cruz Guelabeñe continue to hold steadfast in their belief by embarking on pilgrimages to this sanctuary. Many undertake this journey as a form of “payment” for the fulfilment of a vow or request. As a rule, it is men who take part in the pilgrimage. They carry three wooden crosses throughout the seven-hour walk, which begins at dawn and ends when they reach the chapel.

Previously, the road connecting the city to the sanctuary was overgrown with weeds and the ground was completely asymmetrical. However, with the construction of the wind farm, this route has been transformed into roads that allow better access to the destination.

As a result of these annual celebrations, the Bii Hioxo wind farm, through the Xhuanas (“wise adults” in Zapotec) of this chapel, made a request for the space to be adapted, which included the following:

• Construction of a water storage basin.
• Installation of a water pump and construction of a tank for the toilets.
• Construction of an artesian well to supply water to the reservoir and swimming pool.
• Column maintenance with a coat of paint for benches.
• Construction of a bench with a rustic finish.
• Rehabilitation of the road where the pilgrimage takes place.

GPG Mexico put these requests for the renovation of the sanctuaries into action and has thus been able to contribute to the preservation of these important Zapotec customs at the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, while complying with our corporate responsibility policies.

Santa Cruz Guzebenda:

In Santa Cruz Guzebenda, a series of initiatives were implemented to improve the local infrastructure.

• Water tanks were reconstructed using reinforced materials, resulting in the reinforcement or renovation of the storage facilities. This is essential to ensure a safe and sustainable water supply in the community.
• The handmade roof was repaired and restored using traditional materials like partitions, beams, rustic wooden walls, and a tiled roof. In other words, a handmade roof was restored, using traditional techniques and materials. This type of restoration can not only preserve cultural heritage, but can also improve the functionality and aesthetics of local buildings.
• The road on which the pilgrimage takes place has been repaired. The condition of the road used by the pilgrims has been improved. This can make the pilgrimage easier and safer and promote religious tourism in the region.

In short, the initiatives undertaken in Santa Cruz Guzebenda are substantial endeavours aimed at enhancing local infrastructure, safeguarding traditions, and facilitating important activities such as water storage and pilgrimages.

Santa Cruz Chigueeze:

• A rustic kitchen was built in the Santa Cruz Chigueeze area. The kitchen was built in a simple, traditional way with natural and local materials. A simple and very practical kitchen.