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Church · Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala
Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlán (Basilica of Ocotlán)
An 18th-century baroque sanctuary on a hill above Tlaxcala, with a white façade, red-brick towers and a gilded chapel behind the altar.
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 Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlán (Basilica of Ocotlán)
The Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlán sits on a hill about 1 km from the center of Tlaxcala. According to tradition, the Virgin appeared there in 1541 to an indigenous man named Juan Diego Bernardino. The present sanctuary was built in the 18th century.
The white stucco façade, with reliefs and images, stands between two towers clad in red brick and tiles, and is one of the best-known examples of churrigueresque baroque in Mexico. Behind the altar, the chapel of the Virgin is an octagonal room with gilded woodwork and sculptures, made by the indigenous sculptor Francisco Miguel.
In May the image is carried in procession through the city’s streets, during one of the state’s largest religious festivals.
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 an hour.
Best time
In the morning, when the sun lights the white stucco. In May, during the feast of Our Lady of Ocotlán.
How to get there
About 1 km from the center of Tlaxcala, reachable by taxi or on foot, via an uphill walk.
Tip
Ask to see the chapel behind the main altar, outside of Mass times.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Basilica of Our Lady of Ocotlán (Basilica of Ocotlán)
What is special about the Basilica of Ocotlán?
Its white Baroque façade between red-brick towers and the octagonal gilt-carved chapel behind the altar.
Where is the Basilica of Ocotlán located?
On a hill about 1 km from the center of Tlaxcala.
When is the festival of the Virgin of Ocotlán?
In May, with a procession through the streets of the city.