Virgin of Guadalupe

The Virgin of Guadalupe is one of the few apparitions of the Virgin Mary that the Catholic Church regards as legitimate. Her basilica in Mexico City is a major international pilgrimage site, the focal point of which is the iconic image of the Virgin. In this image, the Virgin wears a crown atop her head and a cloak; she looks down with her hands clasped; she stands on a crescent moon as an angel holds her up. This image is significant especially for Mexican Catholics, who refer to her as the Queen of Mexico (La Reina De Mexico). December 12 is the feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

According to historical accounts, the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego, a peasant who had ...