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Mexico City Basilica (New) of Our Lady of Guadalupe 
The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, is a Roman Catholic church and one of the most significant and sacred sites for Catholics worldwide as it is believed that the Virgin Mary, appeared to Saint Juan Diego there in 1531. Consequently, the basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The first chapel was built on the site in 1533, and over the centuries, the site grew in importance, attracting millions of pilgrims. The old basilica, constructed between 1695 and 1709 by architect Pedro de Arrieta, became a significant site of pilgrimage. Due to structural issues, with the building beginning to sink into the ground due to unstable soil conditions, a new basilica was built nearby in 1974 and was completed and consecrated in 1976. There are now several other chapels and religious buildings on the same site and with the old basilica are a significant part of the site. The New Basilica, designed by architect José Luis Benlliure, features a circular plan with a diameter of 100 meters (330 feet) and a height of 42 meters (138 feet) and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers. The building is modernist in style and includes a large dome which contrasts with the baroque style of the old basilica close by. The external walls are made of concrete and stone which provides structural strength and also gives the building a distinctive modern appearance. The spacious area in front of the basilica provides a large area for gatherings and processions. The walls themselves contain a number of external-coloured panels which give it a striking appearance, although these are also symbolic as these are designed to resemble the mantle of the Virgin of Guadalupe. The panels are made of fiberglass-reinforced concrete, which allows for both durability and artistic expression. The use of coloured panels also reflects the sunlight, giving the basilica a luminous appearance.  Another striking feature are the stained-glass windows, these depict religious scenes and symbols. They also tell the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the history of the Catholic faith in Mexico. The windows, however, are not just decorative but form an integral parts of the basilica's spiritual and artistic expression contributing to the overall ambiance and conveying the religious significance of the site. The roof is circular in shape, resembling a giant tent or crown. This design not only provides a large, unobstructed space within the basilica but also symbolizes the heavens, embracing the faithful beneath. On entering, the circular design provides a large, open space giving a sense of grandeur and serenity.  Escalators within the building make it more accessible for those with mobility problems.  The interior is adorned with stunning mosaics, paintings, and sculptures that depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and other religious figures. These artworks enhance the beauty and reverence of the space. The ceiling of the Basilica is a visually stunning feature, made of wood and beautifully decorated. The intricate designs and carvings on the ceiling add to the grandeur and spiritual ambiance of the basilica.  Within the circular roof design, skylights allow natural light to bathe the interior in a soft glow. In addition to natural light, the basilica has a sophisticated artificial lighting system, which includes strategically placed spotlights and ambient lighting to illuminate the main altar, chapels, and key architectural features. The basilica's lighting system can be adjusted to create different effects and brightness levels, which enable certain areas to be dimmed or highlighted and to highlight the art and decorations without being intrusive. The circular design of the basilica means that seating is arranged in a semi-circular format, providing all worshippers with a clear view of the altar. This layout allows the altar to be visible from anywhere within the basilica. The altar is modern yet deeply symbolic, blending traditional Catholic elements with contemporary design. Its clean lines and open spaces create an atmosphere of reverence and reflection. The altar is adorned with intricate designs and artwork, and it serves as the focal point for the many pilgrims who visit the basilica each year, especially around December 12th, the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  Above the altar is the venerated tilma (cloak) of Saint Juan Diego, which displays the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary.  This is believed to have been miraculously imprinted on the cloak of Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin when the Virgin Mary appeared to him in 1531. The image depicts the Virgin Mary, who is pregnant, standing on a crescent moon, with her hands clasped in prayer. She is clothed in a robe adorned with stars, and an angel supports her feet. This is framed by a beautiful marble wall and illuminated in a way that draws a visitor’s gaze. It is displayed in a bulletproof protective glass case above the altar, allowing it to be seen from a distance.  Surrounding the altar are various works of liturgical art, including sculptures and paintings that depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and other important figures in the Catholic faith. One of the features of the basilica is the display of flags from various countries, which highlights the international nature of the pilgrimages to the basilica. The flags symbolize the universal devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe, who is considered the Patroness of the Americas and has a special significance to people from many different countries.  On the other side of the altar is a beautifully crafted crucifix featuring a detailed representation of Jesus Christ on the cross. The craftsmanship is of a high quality, with intricate details which conveys the suffering of Christ. Behind the crucifix is a pipe organ that is used during Mass and special religious ceremonies, adding a rich musical element to the worship experience.  Either side of the main altar are two additional chapels. On the right is the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and on the left is the Chapel of Saint Joseph. A smaller chapel within the basilica is dedicated to indigenous peoples and their role in the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe. It is decorated with indigenous art and symbols. By the entrance is a reproduction of the Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe where visitors can have their photograph taken.  Visitors are also able to purchase souvenirs from the onsite shop.  The bell tower is situated in the square in front of the basilica. This was completed in 1991, and stands 23 meters (75 ft) tall. It features a carillon with 48 cast-bronze bells that play melodies depending on the time of day. The front of the tower features a circular cyclo-rama that displays the story of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. It contains various time-measuring instruments, including a civil clock, an astrolabe, and a sundial. On the left side, there's an Aztec clock based on lunar observations, which establishes the seasons of harvest and sowing in an 18-month cycle.  The site is not only religiously symbolic but also a cultural one, representing the blending of indigenous and Spanish cultures in Mexico. It is a place of profound spiritual and cultural significance in Mexico and a powerful symbol of the country’s identity and faith. Each year, millions of people visit the site, especially around December 12th, which is the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
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All Photographs were taken by and are copyright of Ron Gatepain
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