Every year, on December 12, millions of Mexicans and devotees around the world celebrate the Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the most important moments in the Catholic calendar. But have you ever wondered why this day is celebrated or where this deep-rooted devotion comes from? Today we tell you a little bit of the history and some curious facts that will surprise you.
The History Behind the Celebration
It all began in 1531, on the hill of Tepeyac, in what is now Mexico City. According to tradition, an indigenous man named Juan Diego was walking in the area when the Virgin Mary appeared to him and asked him to build a temple in her honor. As expected, Juan Diego went to the bishop to convey the message, but of course, the bishop did not believe him right away. It was then that the Virgin performed a miracle: she made roses bloom in Tepeyac in the middle of winter. Juan Diego gathered these roses in his tilma (a kind of cloak) and took them to the bishop. When he unfolded the tilma, not only did the roses fall, but the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared on the mantle. This miracle convinced the bishop, who finally built the shrine she had requested.
Why December 12th?
December 12 is the date on which, according to the stories, the last miracle related to the Virgin took place: the apparition of her image in the tilma of Juan Diego. Since then, this date was fixed as the day to honor her. Furthermore, in 1746, Pope Benedict XIV officially declared Our Lady of Guadalupe as the patron saint of Mexico, further consolidating the importance of this celebration.
Did you know that…?
The Basilica of Guadalupe is the second most visited Catholic shrine in the world. It is only surpassed by St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. Every year, more than 20 million pilgrims come to Tepeyac to pay homage to the Virgin.
The mantle of Juan Diego is a scientific mystery. The tilma, made of maguey fibers, should have decomposed centuries ago, but it is still intact. In addition, scientists have analyzed the eyes of the Virgin in the image and assure that they reflect the scene of the moment in which Juan Diego unfolded his cloak.
The Virgin of Guadalupe is a symbol of national identity. During the War of Independence, Miguel Hidalgo carried a banner with her image, making her a symbol of unity for Mexicans.
There are many dances and songs in her honor. From the traditional matachines to the most modern Marian interpretations, music and dance are essential ways to celebrate the Virgin.
Its name also has a history. Guadalupe comes from the Latin word “Guadalupe” which means “River of light” or from the Nahuatl language, where it could be interpreted as “the one who crushes the snake”.
How is it celebrated?
Throughout Mexico, the celebrations begin on the night of December 11 with the traditional “Mañanitas” to the Virgin. In the Basilica, thousands of faithful sing in unison while carrying offerings of flowers, candles and thanksgiving. But not everything happens in Mexico City; each region has its own customs. For example, in the north of the country, pilgrimages can last for days, while in the south, large fairs are organized.
Many families also celebrate at home, setting up altars decorated with flowers, candles and an image of the Virgin. In addition, tamales and atole are a must to share with friends and neighbors after the religious celebrations.
What does this celebration leave us with?
The Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe is not only a religious date; it is also a day that reminds us of the importance of faith, community and our traditions. The Virgin is a symbol that unites Mexicans, no matter where they are in the world. To celebrate her is also to celebrate our history and our roots.
So, if you have the opportunity, don’t hesitate to be part of this special celebration. Whether singing the “Mañanitas”, participating in a pilgrimage or simply lighting a candle in her honor, the Virgin of Guadalupe will always be there to listen to you and accompany you.
