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Since we are not big city people, we were delighted that our stay was well outside the world's most populous city. However, there were a couple sites we couldn't resist and had a busy day trip to Mexico City. |
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| The most sacred site in Mexico City is the hilltop site where the Virgin of Guadelupe is said to have appeared to an indigenous Mexican man, who many say was a shaman. The new basilica (1964) is built at the foot of this hill. Note the slant of the old 17th century basilica, right, which tilts more each year due to the sinking ground beneath. | Housed, under great
security, in the new basilica, is the original image that is said to
appeared on the cloak of the man. Scientists have reportedly examined
the fabric and the image and can provide to explanation how the the
colors were placed on the cloak. The hill, known as Tepeyac, was the site of a temple dedicated to an Earth and fertility goddess called Tonantzin, the Mother of the Gods. |
Inside the chapel built on the site of the vision, at the top of the hill. There should be more photos of the beautifully landscaped hill with a stream, fountains and statues and the exterior and Virgin's chapel at the top. However, the digital photos taken on the way up and down came out totally unfocused, while photos at the bottom and top were fine. Another mystery of Guadelupe. |
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| This is the view of buildings from the top of the hill where the vision appeared. Note the small chapel in the foreground which houses a well thought to bring good luck to new brides. | The main square, the Zocala, is crowded with the white tents of merchants, and completely lacks charm. The Palacio Nacional flanks one side and the Cathedral another. | Diego Rivera's breathtaking murals of Mexican history, filled with clever political comment, encircle the second floor of the Palacio and are a must-see. |
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| This large baroque Cathedral is worth a quick visit and contains at least one relic of a saint. | While the Cathedral looks overwhelmingly gray from the distance, The details in its facade are fascinating. | A cooling fountain welcomes you to the courtyard of the National Museum of Anthropology and History in Mexico City. (Our two hours there were not enough!) |
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| A reconstruction of a wall honoring Quetzcoatl (the Plumed Serpent) and Chac (the Rain God). | An unusual ornament on display at the Museum, not the painted walls in the background. | We were soon to be off to Tabasco, where this and other giant Olmec heads were found. |
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| This beautiful and unusual "pinto" squirrel was outside the museum. (no link to larger view) |
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