The unmistakable form of the New Basilica With its circular plan and its turquoise roof, they make the view go towards it immediately. In its design Several architects intervened: José Luis Benlliure, Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, Alejandro Schoenhofer, Fray Gabriel Chávez de la Mora and Javier García Lascuráin. This great team of architects planned a robust cement shell, resistant to the continuous earthquakes of Mexico City and the reinforcement of 344 control piles that was the work of the engineer Manuel González Flores. The interior wall paint In the Tabernacle it was the work of Pedro Medina Guzmán, appointed as «the gift of the resurrection.»
To facilitate access and exit to the thousands of visitors, they opened seven broad accesses in the circular perimeter of the basilica. The amplitude and absence of internal columns allows a panoramic view for masses attendees, and Impressive colored stained glass They allow the entry of light to the temple.
But as the name implies, it is the new basilica. This because it was originally a Little Church at the top of Cerro del Tepeyac. Over time this temple became a risk for its small size and instability. And although it is true that the new basilica is the most visited point, you can still access the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe and tour this little temple that for many years housed the original image.
A church on the Cerro del Tepeyac
The story tells that at the top of this hill is where the Virgin of Guadalupe And where the mantle was found with its original image, this is the reason why the small sanctuary was built there. Over time the visitors increased and the fragility of the land on which it sits forced build a new home For this valuable religious image. However; The brave ones who decide to raise the hill, are a masterpiece in terms of design and architecture, loaded with religious value and history.
Also known as The ancient basilicathis building of the late seventeenth century was the work of the architect Pedro de Arrieta. The construction began in 1695 and in 1709 its doors opened. This little church in no way became a cathedral for its sizes, but thanks to the importance it represented, the title of Collegiate was granted, which allowed it to have its own abbot and council.
This beautiful sanctuary presumes a facade, with four octagonal towers and corners ornate with talavera tile mosaics. Inside this church there are beautiful walls with inlays that transform space In a work of art. The domes are characteristics of any cathedral and this is no exception.
The small church is currently one of the Secret Rinons of the Basilica of Guadalupebut without a doubt it is one of those that is worth visiting, not only for its history but also for its impressive architecture and its historical interior design.