City of Tucson



 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
City of Tucson

The story of the Shrine
The El Tiradito Shrine (The castaway). The shrine is located in a South Tucson barrio neighborhood. People come from all over the southwest to visit this shrine which is said to provide magical powers, they ask for help and pray for many heart felt desires.

Some visitors wish for help with a sick child or relative by leaving a photograph, a piece of clothing or a small momento. Some ask for the love of their romantic interest by lighting a candle with their secret lovers name written on the bottom, or maybe a poem or some flowers. Some people leave quarters under a candle to ask for help with money troubles. It is said if your candle burns throughout the night, your wish will be granted.

The original story about this shrine, which took place in the 1800’s, has been rummored to be a love triangle between a Hispanic woman who left her husband, to be with the man she truly loved. Supposedly the angry husband murdered his wifes lover. The Catholic Church would not allow the man to be buried in the Catholic cemetery because he was a sinner. The "Castaway" was supposedly buried on this site and his lover would go to weep by his graveside. It is said when the monsoon rain storms come to Tucson you can hear her cries at this shrine.

El Tiradito Shrine Tucson Arizona the Shrine for the Castaway © A. T. Willett 1999

I think this is one of the most important photographs I have taken in a long time. I poured my heart, mind, and soul into creating this image. What I was thinking when I created this image and what I have learned about myself is more important to me than just creating a nice image. There is another very interesting story about my trip to the shrine but I will save that for another time.

It is my hope that by creating this image, I can help others to understand the beauty and the magical energy of the El Tiradito Shrine. Next time you're in Tucson if there is something you need a little help with in your life, stop by this shrine, and with a clear mind, a pure heart send your intentions out into the world. You will just never know what is possible until you do.

A.T. Willett Local Tucson Photographer / Tucson photojournalist uses beautiful light and color to create dramatic images of earth, wind, fire, water, and interesting people. If you need my help with a Tucson Arizona or Southwest Photo Shoot give me a call 520-322-9750 or click on the contact link to send me an email.

Enjoy life today! Tom

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© A.T. Willett 1983-2007    PO BOX 40821 Tucson Arizona 85717-0821    info@virtualtucsonmagazine.com