Basilica of Guadalupe and Teotihuacan

Diego's cloak

On Saturday we had the awesome priviledge of going on an excursion with the school. We visited two amazing places and learned lots of great history. Yes, we had a school day on Saturday.

On the way we received some Mexican candy. This is a lollipop covered in chilli powder. Vance was the only one brave enough to eat it.

Our first stop was the Basilica of Guadalupe. According to tradition, a peasant named Juan Diego saw a vision of a young woman. He told the local bishop who asked for proof. Three days later, according to the legend, the image of Mary miraculously appeared on Diego's cloak when he was showing the bishop his proof.

Today this cloak is displayed at the Basilica. It is the first picture of this post. Millions of people travel to this place each year. It is the second most visited church in the entire world.

This is the latest structure that was built in 1976.

This is the structure that was built in the early 1700's. The 1976 sturcture had to be built because this one became unsafe because it was sinking.

You can actually see the building leaning forward in this picture.

These are the only remains of the original structure built in 1531.

Many people believe the cloak holds special power and will make request as they pass by it. Our guide told us that some people will only walk on their knees once they enter the Basilica grounds. This is a way of showing respect or gratitude. This lady is walking on her knees carrying her baby.


Our next stop was.....

This city was thought to have been established around 200 BC. At its height it was the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas. Included at the site are two pyramids, the Sun Pyramid and the Moon Pyramid.

The Sun Pyramid

Our crew ready to climb to the top!

A view from the top.

View of the Moon Pyramid from the top of the Sun Pyramid

This is Mini Olivia. She is a doll that Sarah's friend gave her when we left. She is experiencing Mexico first-hand with us.

We all made it!

The girls

The boys

The parents (Mom this one is for you since you say I never put up pictures of myself.)

Back down on level ground.

This was such a great day! We learned so much about Mexico and some of its history. We are blessed to be able to have such experiences while living here.