La Conquistadora
The Story of the Oldest Statue of the Virgin Mary
in the United States
La Conquistadora, a petite wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, accompanied Spanish Conquistadors and missionaries to the Kingdom of Nuevo México in 1625. As Queen of New Mexico, she is enthroned in her own chapel at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
This 94-page book, with more than 30 historical and color photographs, documents the enduring devotion given to the very first image of the Virgin Mary in our country. (Sunstone Press, 2011).
- Finalist in 2012 Arizona/New Mexico Book Awards
About La Conquistadora
- She was discovered in Mexico City, but her origin is unknown.
- In 1680, she was rescued from a burning church and carried to safety.
- In 1973, she was kidnapped and held for ransom.
- Her exquisite wardrobe consists of more than 200 dresses and a priceless collection of crowns and jewelry.
- Based on a promise made over 300 years ago, she is carried yearly in procession from the cathedral to Rosario Chapel.
Purchase La Conquistadora from:
suehouser.com 