Eternally Lit Shrine
Just south of Patagonia, Arizona, one might run across this wondrous site: an eternally lit shrine.
The story goes that Juan Telles built the shrine for this wife, Juana. They lit a candle for their son (or several sons) who were off to World War II. It has continued to be cared for despite family members passing, or moving, on.
I'm not certain, but I believe the original shrine can be seen in the second image, with the little shrine up the stairs, built into a niche in the living rock. This trustworthy site has the complete story.
This is located approximately three miles south of Patagonia on Highway 82; Google Maps lists it as John Ward Ranch, Historical.
Land acknowledgement: O'odham Jewed, Sobaipuri, Opata, Tohono O'odham, Hohokam.
Three images by Richard Koenig; taken May 3rd, 2024
