One of the most visited Catholic shrines in the world, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is where you can commune with God and refresh your soul. Millions of Catholics from all over the world come to the Basilica to worship, praise and give thanks.
The new Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is located north of Mexico City, about 8 kilometers from the heart of the city. The old basilica was constructed in an unstable land and was sinking, so a new and modern basilica was constructed. Although the old basilica was repaired, it was turned into a perpetual adoration. The new Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a magnificent structure which can accommodate 50,000 people. It features 9 chapels on the upper floor, and 15,000 niches and 10 chapels under the main floor. Its seven front doors symbolize the seven gates of eternal Jerusalem.
It was on the dawn of December 9, 1531 thatJuan Diego, anIndian convert, who was passing Tepayac Hill,heard a voice calling out to him. The voice was that of the Blessed Virgin Mary who spoke to him in his own native tongue. This was followed by 4 more apparitions, the last of which, was when a beautiful colored portrait of the Blessed Virgin appeared in the coarse fabric of Juan’s mantle. The Blessed Virgin then told Juan that her image was to be known as "Santa Maria de Guadalupe".
Today, the portrait still remains fresh and beautiful. Feel the presence of the Blessed Virgin at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
