Virgen de Guadalupe

Our Lady of Guadalupe is Mexico's patron saint and one of the most important religious figures in Latin America. She is believed to have appeared to Juan Diego, a peasant, on December 9, 1531, on Tepeyac Hill, near Mexico City. The apparitions took place over several days, and Juan Diego is said to have carried a message from the Virgin Mary to the bishop of Mexico City. The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe is said to have been miraculously imprinted on Juan Diego's tilma, a cloak made of cactus fibers. The tilma has been examined by scientists and experts, and they have been unable to find any evidence of paint or other artificial materials. The tilma still exists today and is housed in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. Our Lady of Guadalupe is believed to symbolize hope and protection for the people of Mexico. She is also seen as a bridge between the Catholic faith and the indigenous cultures of Latin America. Her image is often seen on clothing, jewelry, and other objects, and she is a popular subject of art and literature.