Basílica de Guadalupe

Overview

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Catholicism, receiving over 10 million visitors annually.

Highlights

• Tilma of Juan Diego: The 16th-century cloak bearing the miraculous image of the Virgin, displayed behind the main altar on a slow-moving walkway.
• Tepeyac Hill: Climb to the hilltop chapel for views and the spot where the apparition reportedly occurred in 1531.
• Old Basilica: The sinking 1709 basilica, now restored as a museum.

History

According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego in December 1531. The current modern basilica, designed by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, was consecrated in 1976.

Visitor Tips

• December 12: The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe draws millions.
• Moving walkway: Pass beneath the tilma on a conveyor belt for an up-close view.
• Duration: 45-60 minutes.