Established in the late 1600s, this church is an important landmark for the region. This is the home of the Virgin of Zapopan, who has long played an important role to the people of Jalisco and is, in fact, the state's official patroness. The statue of the Virgin that is housed there is famous throughout Mexico: Made of cornhusks and carved wood, it's said to have miraculous powers. From June to October every year, the traveling version of the statue is transported through various towns in Jalisco, returning to the basilica on 12 October, when a great celebration takes place. Open daily. Free. Plaza de las Americas (about 5 mi/8 km from downtown Guadalajara), Zapopan.