BASÍLICA DE GUADALUPE

The Basilica of Santa María de Guadalupe, more commonly known as the Basilica of Guadalupe, is a major pilgrimage site and the second most visited Catholic place of worship in the world, after the Vatican. According to Catholic tradition, the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to an indigenous Mexican named Juan Diego in December 1531, on Tepeyac Hill, on the site of the former basilica. During this celestial manifestation, the Virgin is said to have asked him to build a church in her honor. As proof of her appearance, she miraculously left her image printed on Juan Diego's tilma, a kind of cloth cloak. Today, this image is venerated in the basilica, and a conveyor belt has even been installed in front of it to ease the flow of pilgrims and avoid congestion. When you arrive at the site, you'll notice two buildings: the ancient basilica and the modern basilica. Construction of the latter was completed in 1976, as the old basilica, erected in 1709, had foundation problems that were causing it to collapse. The new basilica was therefore built to replace it. It was designed by architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, whose other projects include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Tlatelolco Tower in the Plaza de los Tres Culturas and the Azteca Stadium. Its circular configuration, with a diameter of 100 metres, can accommodate up to 10,000 visitors. Every year, on December 12, the feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe is fervently celebrated. On this day, a large-scale commemoration is organized throughout the country, particularly around the basilica, where over 7 million faithful attend various masses and ceremonies. Finally, don't forget to visit the Basilica Museum, located to the left of the ancient temple. It's open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission costs $10. Inaugurated in 1941, it houses the most important collection of works related to the cult of Guadalupe, as well as a valuable selection of Novo-Hispanic, European and Asian art dating from the ^15th to the ^20th centuries. In addition to its art exhibits, the museum provides detailed information on the history of the Basilica of Guadalupe, from the first apparition of the Virgin in 1531 to the construction of the modern basilica. Guided tours are available Monday to Saturday at 11am and 3pm. To reserve your place, send an e-mail to [email protected].