AN ABSOLUTE MUST FOR MEXICANS AND FOREIGNERS WHO ARE GUIDED BY FAITH.
ABOUT THE AREA..
The Guadalupe Basilica is one of the holiest places in Catholicism. The second most visited temple in the world after St. Peter; it annually receives 40 million visitors between pilgrims and tourists. Every day thousands of people on pilgrimage climb up the Calzada de Guadalupe. They come from all quarters of the city, from all cities and towns in Mexico, and from all over the world.
On top of the Tepeyac hill -where Tonantzin was previously worshipped- the Virgen appeared to Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin. Today it is Villa de Guadalupe, a complex of religious buildings including the Basilica itself, the Capilla de Indios, the Cerrito Chapel, the Tepeyac Cemetery, the Pocito Chapel, the Temple and the former convent of the Capuchin nuns, the Templo Expiatorio a Cristo Rey, the Basilica Museum, the Baptistery and the Plaza Mariana.
The Basilica is of modern construction. It was designed to accommodate 10,000 worshipers, and to facilitate the view from any point of the famous and mysterious cloth with the image of the Virgin, which today continues to intrigue the world.
SOME SUGGESTIONS..
1. If you have a special devotion to the Virgin of Guadalupe you can go the day of the Virgin, on December 12. Be aware, however, that millions of people will be there and it will be difficult to see Her.
2. If you are devout but you can not go, or you prefer a more intimate experience, join one of the many pilgrimages organized in churches around the world or come on your own.
3. In addition to the Basilica, go up Tepeyac Hill to the Cerrito Chapel, the place where Mary appeared.
4. Do not miss the great baroque jewel Pocito Chapel.
5. Take pictures in the natural fountains that recreate the apparition. You can also buy a souvenir at the market located on the foothill.
