The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan is a Franciscan church in the historic centre of Zapopan, Guadalajara. It was built in the baroque style between 1689 and 1730 and holds the small wooden statue of the Virgin of Zapopan, patroness of Jalisco, whom pilgrims visit all year. Inside are the main prayer area with a section on each side, paintings and sculpture, and a statue of Pope John Paul II that draws admiration. Outside, a wide promenade leads to a plaza with shops, restaurants and local vendors.
The Virgin of Zapopan
The basilica was built to house Nuestra Señora de Zapopan, a wooden figure of the Virgin Mary about 34 centimetres tall that dates from the 16th century. Pilgrims visit it year-round. The Virgin is the patroness of Jalisco and is also invoked as patroness of storms. The Catholic Church has officially recognised the statue for its miracles, and believers travel from many countries to see it.
The church holds the title of basilica, an honour given to certain buildings tied to a historical event or a major saint. It is described as the third most important pilgrimage site in Mexico.
The pilgrimage on 12 October
Every year on 12 October the statue is at the centre of one of the largest pilgrimages in Mexico. It is carried in procession between Guadalajara Cathedral and the basilica, a route of about five miles (8 km). Many of the faithful follow on their knees, and the final stretch is made up the basilica's aisle to the altar, where they pray for favours. The procession has dancing and colourful traditional dress.
The festivities continue through October, when the plaza fills with dance, food and stalls selling souvenirs. If you want quiet, choose another month.
Architecture and what is inside
The Franciscans built the church between 1689 and 1730. The style is mainly baroque, with plateresque elements. The façade is approached along a wide promenade several blocks long that ends at a large plaza and garden square.
Inside, the main prayer area is flanked by a section on each side, and each is worth a look. The church holds paintings and sculptures, and a permanent exhibit of Huichol, Tepehuan and Cora art. The interior decoration is rich. Some visitors find the modern advertising inside out of place, so the view of the church from the plaza outside is a good counterpoint. The statue of Pope John Paul II is another point of interest.
The plaza and the evening light show
On Friday and Saturday evenings the plaza fills with food stands, vendors, friends catching up and children running about. At 9pm the plaza darkens and the crowd falls quiet. A 3D light and sound show is then projected onto the façade, telling the history of Zapopan, a colonial town that became a suburb, and of the basilica itself.
On other days the streets around the church are still busy with small shops and restaurants, and local vendors set up right in front of the building.
Getting there and what is nearby
The basilica is a short walk from the LRT. The turquoise air-conditioned TUR buses also run to Zapopan, passing just south and west of the town centre, and continue to Tlaquepaque and Tonalá.
The Art Museum of Zapopan (MAZ), the city's main contemporary art gallery, is nearby, as is the Monumento Arcos de Zapopan at the eastern edge of the centre. To combine the church with a walk, leave Bosque los Colomos by its northern Avenida Patria entrance. Historic downtown Zapopan is about 20 minutes uphill on foot.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee for the Basílica de Zapopan?
The basilica is among the free attractions of historic downtown Zapopan. It is an active church, so keep your voice low.
How long do you need at the basilica?
Allow 30 to 60 minutes for the church and plaza. Stay longer if you want to see the evening light show or explore the shops and restaurants around it.
When is the light show?
On Friday and Saturday evenings, at 9pm. It is a 3D light and sound show projected onto the façade, telling the history of Zapopan and the basilica.
What happens on 12 October?
A major pilgrimage takes place, with the statue of the Virgin of Zapopan carried in procession between Guadalajara Cathedral and the basilica. Many of the faithful follow on their knees, and the area is very busy.
How do you get to the Basílica de Zapopan?
It is a short walk from the LRT. The turquoise TUR buses also run to Zapopan.
