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Sanctuary · Cidade do México, Cidade do México
Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe
The most visited sanctuary in the Americas, at the foot of the Tepeyac hill, featuring the new basilica (1976), the 18th-century old basilica, and the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe
The Basilica of Guadalupe is Mexico's main Catholic sanctuary and one of the most visited in the world. It stands at the foot of the Tepeyac hill in the northern part of the city, where tradition holds that the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to the indigenous Juan Diego in 1531 and left her image imprinted on his cloak (the tilma).
The new basilica, dating from 1976, is a circular concrete building with capacity for thousands of people. The image is located behind the altar, and a moving walkway passes beneath it so worshippers can see it without stopping the line. Beside it, the old basilica, from 1709, tilted due to ground subsidence, has a dome of yellow and blue tiles and serves as both church and museum.
A stairway and gardens climb Tepeyac hill up to the Capilla del Cerrito, offering views of the north of the city. Along the way there are other chapels and fountains.
On December 12, the feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, millions of pilgrims arrive on foot from across the country and the plaza fills up days in advance. At any time of year there are Masses throughout the day.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one and a half to two hours, including the climb up Tepeyac.
Best time
Mornings on weekdays. Avoid the days around December 12 unless you are taking part in the celebration.
How to get there
In the north of the city, on Calzada de Guadalupe. Metro line 6, La Villa-Basílica station, or Metrobús line 6, a few blocks away.
Tip
Respect the Masses and prayer lines; inside the new basilica the moving walkway passes beneath the image.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basílica de Santa María de Guadalupe
Where is the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe?
In the new basilica, behind the altar. A moving conveyor passes beneath the image so everyone can see it.
When is the feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe?
On December 12. Millions of pilgrims arrive at the basilica in the days before.
How to get to the Basilica of Guadalupe?
By metro, Line 6, La Villa-Basílica station, or by Metrobús, Line 6. It is in the north of Mexico City.