Basilica of Guadalupe & Tepeyac Hill: Mexico’s Most Important Sanctuary

Meeting point: At the statue of Pope John Paul II, next to the Old Basilica (Expiatory Temple of Christ the King), in Plaza Mariana.

We begin at the Old Basilica, where we will observe the structural effects caused by centuries of unstable ground and earthquakes.

Here, I will also share the story of my paternal ancestor and his role in the 1666 investigation that led to the official recognition of the Guadalupe miracle.

We walk toward the foothills of Tepeyac Hill and explore its historical significance before and after the Spanish arrival.

At this point, we will discuss the challenges faced by Catholics in Mexico from the 19th century through the early 20th century, including a major religious conflict.

We reach the Temple of the Hill, a key site in the Guadalupe tradition. From here, there are wide views of the surrounding valley.

One of the most beautiful gardens of its kind in Mexico City, serving as the setting for a monumental sculptural ensemble known as “La Ofrenda.”

This baroque temple marks the site of another miracle associated with the Virgin of Guadalupe: the appearance of a miraculous spring of water.

A 17th-century temple that preserves early colonial remains inside, offering insight into the first stages of Christian devotion in the area.

We approach the New Basilica to see the original tilma (cloak) of Saint Juan Diego, preserved for nearly 500 years and associated with the Guadalupe apparition.

We finish the tour at the same place where we started.