Very nice! I love the El Templo with its many pieces of art. I'm going to make a point of visiting it next time I'm in Mérida.
Hahaha, the virgin protects the ganag! Why not? Though I'd say in this case it probably refers to the folks of the neighborhood. Instead of la banda you could also say la gente or la raza. Which is not to mean that the people of the barrio are necessarily involved in an organized crime group, though it is possible.
yes drop in it is amazing!, yeah I get that about the gangs, it was a safe place to wander, so "gangs" like you say is too literal