Whispers of ancient rituals still echo around the Basilica de Los Remedios. It sits atop the Tlachihualtepetl pyramid in Cholula, Mexico. This pyramid is one of the largest ancient pyramids in the world. The Basilica de Los Remedios itself dates back to the 16th century. It was built between May 1574 and August 1575. The church wasn’t consecrated until March 25, 1629. The Basilica de Los Remedios is a striking blend of Spanish colonial and pre-Hispanic cultures. It stands as a testament to the layered history of this site.
The pyramid below has a fascinating history of its own. It’s actually six superimposed structures built over centuries. The base measures a staggering 450 meters on each side and stands 54 meters high. That’s twice as large as the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan and four times bigger in volume than the Great Pyramid of Giza. In the early 1930s, exploration of the pyramid began, revealing seven superimposed structures within. Tunnels were excavated, uncovering incredible murals. One depicts a vibrant array of butterflies. Another shows a ceremony honoring Octli, the god of pulque.
The Basilica de Los Remedios was constructed with carved stone and decorated with 24-carat gold leaf. The neoclassical altar adds to the church’s grandeur. In 1595, the artist Alfonso de Villasana created the paintings that adorn the basilica’s walls. These paintings add another layer of richness to the church’s interior.
A key figure in the basilica’s history is Captain Juan Rodríguez de Villafuerte. He carried a small, carved and gilded image of Our Lady of Remedies with him from Spain in 1519. Legend has it that during the Spanish retreat after the “Noche Triste,” de Villafuerte hid the image among aloe plants on the hill of Otocampulco. Twenty years later, indigenous people discovered the image. It was kept in the home of a local chief until a chapel was built for it. The Basilica de Los Remedios has been dedicated to Our Lady of Remedies since 1594. This image, a symbol of faith and resilience, continues to be revered by locals and visitors alike. The Basilica de Los Remedios isn’t just a church. It’s a tangible link to a complex and fascinating past.