Capilla del Cerrito

The Capilla del Cerrito is a chapel at the top of Cerro del Tepeyac with a baroque facade built from red volcanic rock and decorated columns inside. The structure sits at the summit of a hill and commands a view of the Valley of Mexico.

The chapel was built at the spot where Juan Diego is said to have gathered damask roses to present to Bishop Juan de Zumárraga as proof of a sacred vision. This event became central to regional religious traditions.

The chapel displays murals by Fernando Leal that tell the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe, which continue to draw visitors who come to understand this spiritual narrative. These artworks reflect how people today experience and honor this sacred location.

Visitors must climb a steep winding staircase to reach the chapel and view the surrounding valley. The climb is physically demanding, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time for the ascent.

The chapel's terrace features four marble statues of archangels carved by sculptor Ernesto Tamariz from Puebla. These figures represent a notable example of religious sculpture commissioned specifically for this location.