Santuario de Guadalupe: Santa Fe's Oldest Shrine and Historic Crown Jewel
There's no shortage of attractions in Santa Fe—from world-class museums and vibrant cuisine to stunning scenery under endless blue skies. For a truly unique experience, visit the Santuario de Guadalupe, one of the city's hidden treasures and a cornerstone of New Mexico's rich heritage.
In the Beginning...
Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe from the Northeast, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 1880 (Photo courtesy of the Palace of the Governors Photo Archives. Negative No. 015847)
The Santuario de Guadalupe, established in the 1770s, is the oldest standing shrine in the United States. Built in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, it commemorates the Virgin Mary's apparitions to Aztec peasant Juan Diego in 1531 near Mexico City.
All Things Guadalupe
This Santa Fe landmark features the historic chapel; a larger adjacent Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe; El Cerro de Tepeyac, a walking path with six tile mosaics by artist Arlene Cisneros Sena depicting the apparitions; and a striking 12-foot statue welcoming visitors.
Architectural Evolution
Situated along the Santa Fe River near the Camino Real's end, the adobe shrine originally followed a Latin cross plan with 3-foot-thick walls, a flat viga-supported roof, dirt floor, and three-tiered bell tower. A 1922 fire destroyed the roof and spire but spared the walls and altar. Restoration adopted a California Mission style with a pitched roof, bell tower, and wooden floor.
The 12-foot statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe stands prominently in front (Photo courtesy of MarkKane.net)
In the Threads of Santa Fe video, City of Santa Fe Historian Ana Pacheco shares the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The Art of Santuario de Guadalupe
Digital reproduction of the image on St. Juan Diego's tilma from 1531 in Mexico City.
Now an art and history museum, the chapel houses the Archdiocese of Santa Fe's collection of New Mexican santos, Italian Renaissance paintings, and Mexican baroque works. Highlights include a 1783 masterpiece by renowned Mexican artist Jose de Alzibar—one of the largest oil paintings of Our Lady of Guadalupe in the U.S. It depicts the Virgin centrally with four scenes from the 1531 apparitions, transported in sections along the Camino Real.
Santa Fe's adobe architecture, nestled amid majestic mountains, draws visitors worldwide. USA Today's 10Best ranks it among America's Best Historic Cities.
Immerse yourself in Santa Fe's culture and history. Order our 2019 Santa Fe Travel Guide. Check the Deals & Specials page for seasonal discounts on lodging, dining, and attractions.
