The holiday season is fast approaching, which means it’s time to start decorating gingerbread houses. A real-life version can be found right here in El Paso, with architecture so intricate it resembles sugar — hence its name “Casa de Azucar,” which means “house of sugar” in Spanish. Take a look at this whimsical home and start planning your visit:
Casa de Azucar was a 25-year project for Rufino Loya, built as a labor of love to show his wife just how much he loves her. More than 300 hours of tedious work went into the masterpiece, transforming an ordinary house into a breathtaking work of art.
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Beginning with small patterns carved from cement surrounding his house, Loya’s spare-time hobby soon became a grandiose vision. With laser focus, he chiseled away around the clock to make that dream reality.
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Many of the pieces were inspired by Catholic churches in Mexico, where Loya is from. Other representations of his native country include several pineapples, which symbolize hospitality.
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Religious figures and natural elements like flowers and leaves dominate the shrine. A large altarpiece lining the front door showers all who enter with blessings and prosperity.
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You’ll also see numerous roses scattered throughout the entire property. While beautiful to look at, they serve a much deeper purpose: honoring those who died on 9/11.
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The Sugar House can be found at 4301 Leavell Ave. El Paso, TX, just off Highway 54. Lucky visitors will encounter the homeowner himself, who’s always eager to explain his humble abode and all its intricacies.
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Watch this video to take a virtual tour of the house:
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Have you ever driven by or visited Casa de Azucar? What’s your favorite bizarre house in Texas? We’re partial to this quirky abode.
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