Tepeyac facts for kids
Tepeyac is a famous hill in Mexico City. It is also known as the Hill of Tepeyac. In the past, people called it Tepeyacac or Tepeaquilla. This hill is in the northern part of Mexico City, in an area called Gustavo A. Madero.
For many people, Tepeyac is a very special place. According to a Catholic story, Saint Juan Diego met the Virgin of Guadalupe here in December 1531. She is said to have given him a special image. Today, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe stands on this hill. It is one of the most visited Catholic churches in the world.
History of Tepeyac Hill
Before Europeans arrived, Tepeyac Hill was an important place for the native people. They used to worship their earth goddesses here. One of these goddesses was called Tonantzin Coatlaxopeuh. "Tonantzin" was a title of great respect. "Coatlaxopeuh" was her name.
What Does "Tepeyac" Mean?
The name Tepeyacac comes from the Nahuatl language. This was the language spoken by the Aztec people. The word is made of three parts:
- tepetl means "mountain"
- yacatl means "nose"
- -c means "at"
So, Tepeyacac generally means "a settlement on the ridge or brow of a hill." Some experts think it might also mean that this hill is the first and most important in a group of three hills.
See also
- Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- El Tepeyac National Park
