Pilgrims travel to this enormous church from across Mexico each year. Make your own pilgrimage to learn about its history and contemporary design.
The Basilica de Guadalupe is a large church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The church attracts thousands of pilgrims from around the country each year. Admire the church’s modern design with its sloping roof. Outside the church there’s a bustling atmosphere created by worshippers, residents and vendors.
The church is such a large structure that you can see it from miles away. Admire the innovative design of the building with its overlapping walls, sloping roof and decorative poles. An enormous cross sits among the palm trees outside the church.
Basilica de Guadalupe is devoted to a 16th-century apparition of the Virgin Mary in Mexico City in her guise of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Enter the basilica to see the countless candles and flower arrangements dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
See the old church, which dates back to 1880. It stands just 164 feet (50 meters) from the new one. The second church was built in 1978 and is much larger than the original, which was considered restrictive.
The church provides welcome relief from the scorching afternoon heat. Listen to the soothing hymns and enjoy the acoustics of the grand hall. Attend the festivities in December when mariachi bands play traditional songs in front of thousands of rejoicing pilgrims.
Many market stalls, small shops and vendors are located outside the basilica. Notice the lively atmosphere they create around the church. Peruse the stalls for souvenirs and snacks, such as Glorias, a candy made from goat milk.
You will find the Basilica de Guadalupe 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) south of Monterrey’s city center. Parking can be difficult so it is best to take a taxi or public transport or arrive on foot.
The Barrio Antiguo (Old Town) district is just to the north, along with many of the city’s most striking attractions, such as the Faro del Comercio (Lighthouse of Commerce).
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