Chalma (municipality)

Chalma is a municipality located in the State of Mexico, Mexico. It is part of the Chalco Valley region, situated southeast of Mexico City. The municipality is known primarily for the Santuario de Chalma, a significant Roman Catholic pilgrimage site.

The Santuario de Chalma, or Sanctuary of Chalma, is dedicated to Our Lord of Chalma and attracts millions of visitors annually, particularly during religious festivals. The origins of the sanctuary predate the Spanish conquest, with evidence suggesting a pre-Hispanic religious site dedicated to the water god Oztotéotl was present in the area. The current church was built in the 17th century.

Beyond the sanctuary, the municipality of Chalma is characterized by its rural landscape, with agriculture playing a crucial role in the local economy. The terrain is varied, encompassing valleys and hillsides.

While tourism related to the sanctuary is a major economic driver, other activities such as farming and small-scale commerce also contribute to the local economy. The municipality's infrastructure is primarily geared towards accommodating pilgrims and supporting the resident population.

The demographics of Chalma largely reflect the population of the surrounding region, with a mix of indigenous and mestizo inhabitants. Spanish is the predominant language, although some indigenous languages may be spoken within certain communities.

Administratively, the municipality is governed by a municipal president and a council, responsible for local governance and public services. Chalma participates in state-level initiatives and programs aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare within the State of Mexico.