The many faces of the Virgin of Guadalupe

How lucky am I to be in Mexico during celebrations for Virgin of Guadalupe Day?   On December 12th, Catholics across the Americas celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe commemorating the day in 1531 when the apparition of the Virgin Mary appeared in Mexico City, in the form of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Since then, she has become an icon not just of religious faith, but  of ethnic pride and resistance against oppression.

Virgin of Guadeloupe from Hotel Mariposa in Oaxaca City

In Mexico, I’ve seen her her likeness on everything from lampshades to purses to buildings. In Chiapas, she was wearing a Zapatista bandana and, on the ceiling of a small church in La Crucecita, Huatulco, she was represented in the world’s largest mural dedicated to the Virgin of Guadaloupe.  You can check  out the mural on the website of Mexican artist Jose del Signo or  visit it in person (the church is located across from the zocolo).

She’s here, there and everywhere

I’ve even seen her passing by in a solemn procession near our family’s home in Guatemala City, Guatemala.

So, I’m especially happy to be here  in Puerto Vallarta, home to the main parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the iconic symbol that dominates the city’s skyline during our Lady of Guadalupe Day. There have already been processions, pilgrims, fireworks and of course food. And many, many likenesses of the Virgin on  religious objects and  souvenirs.

Crown of Our Lady of Guadalupe church in Puerto Vallarta

Processions for Our Lady of Guadalupe in Puerto Vallarta on Dec. 11, 2012

What is  most amazing though, is how she  draws devotees from all religions, faiths and beliefs… proving that, not only is the Virgin of Guadalupe everywhere — she is for everyone.

If You Go

Official Tourism website: Visit Mexico

Best Viewing Location: A top spot to see the processions is La Casa de los Omelets, located on the second floor  on Independencia 225 above Calle Juarez near Our Lady of Guadalupe church. Get there early to score a seat on the balcony.

Related posts:

A hilltop feast on Janitzio island, Mexico How to make Margaritas – a master class Support the annual Women’s Weaving Cooperative Sale How to celebrate Cinco de Mayo – eat!