The shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of Catholicism’s great pilgrimage sites. Visited since at least the 16th century, it holds the cloak of Juan Diego, which is said to bear the image of Our Lady, another name for the Virgin Mary. Extremely important in colonial Mexican culture, there is now a new basilica on the site, constructed as the older building was slowly sinking. See the Temples of Quetzalpapalotl, the Temple of the Feathered Shells, the impressive Pyramid of the Moon, and the Pyramid of the Sun, located along the long Avenue of the Dead. Admire the colorful murals and see the Mesoamerican artifacts in the Archaeological Museum as you learn more about this ancient civilization.
Next you will move on to the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built from around 100 BC and named “The Birthplace of the Gods” by the Aztecs. Remarkably well-preserved, wandering the gigantic pyramidical structures and temples here is akin to stepping back through time. Human sacrifice was practised here, and at least 8 known deities were worshipped by the inhabitants. Enjoy the incredible views from the temples, and as you walk along the Avenue of the Dead.