Can you believe it? This very spot beneath the Capilla del Cerrito is where Mexican tradition says the Virgin of Guadalupe first appeared to Juan Diego.
Welcome to the Capilla del Cerrito. It is also known as the Chapel of Tepeyac Hill. This sacred place has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Today we will explore the stories and the spiritual significance of this beautiful chapel.
The story of the Capilla del Cerrito begins in 1666. But the structure we see today began construction in 1740. It is dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel. Many know it for marking the exact location of the Virgin of Guadalupe’s first apparition to Juan Diego in 1531. This event is known as the miracle of the fresh flowers.
The original chapel built in 1666 lasted for 120 years. Eventually a more substantial structure became necessary. This included a chaplain’s house. The current chapel is beloved for its frescoes by muralist Fernando Leal. These frescoes narrate the story of the apparitions. In 1895 four marble angels by sculptor Ernesto Tamariz and a Cross of the apostle were added.
The Capilla del Cerrito underwent reconstruction between 1945 and 1950. This included adding a small square. The square features sculptures of the archangels Michael Raphael Gabriel and Uriel.
Notice the hill that the Capilla del Cerrito stands upon. Some might find it a bit challenging to climb. It is not quite as little as its name implies. From the terrace of the Capilla del Cerrito you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mexico City.
The Stone Sails stand nearby. Legend says that sailors caught in a storm prayed to the Virgin of Guadalupe. They vowed to bring their mast and foresail to Tepeyac as thanks for their safety. These Stone Sails serve as a votive offering to the Virgin.
Colonel Albert S. Evans wrote about the Stone Sails in 1873. He mentioned that a winding pathway leads up the hill to the chapel. He described a curious structure representing the sails mast and yard of a ship.
Frederick A Ober wrote about the monument in 1884. He said that a sailor vowed to build a stone ship if saved from a storm. The sailor only managed to build the foremast.
Mrs. Alec Tweedie described the Stone Sails in 1911. She noted that the sails are carved in solid stone. They stand about 30 or 40 feet high. She recounted the story of sailors saved from shipwreck. They erected the Stone Sails as evidence of the Sacred Lady’s wonderful power.
Friar Ilarione da Bergamo journeyed to Mexico in 1761. He wrote about fulfilling a vow made during a storm. The crew carried a foremast sail to a church.
The Stone Sails even had a model at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. The exhibit described shipwrecked sailors planting their foremast as a transformed emblem of devotion.
Consider the ancient title for the Blessed Virgin: Star of the Sea. Sailors trusted in her protection and guidance. The Stone Sails may consolidate various votives from sailors into one monument to Stella Maris.
The Capilla del Cerrito offers more than just historical and spiritual enrichment. It provides a serene escape from Mexico City’s bustling energy. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of faith history and art that converge here. As you leave reflect on the millions of pilgrims who have walked this path. Remember their devotion and the enduring legacy of the Virgin of Guadalupe.