Two distinct devotions to the Virgin of Guadalupe exist, which, despite sharing the same name and toponym, have separate origins, iconographies, and histories. One is medieval, originating from Extremadura, Spain, and the other dates from the 16th century, from Tepeyac, Mexico.
The Virgin of Guadalupe of Extremadura, associated with an appearance to a shepherd in the 13th century, is the patroness of Extremadura and was crowned Queen of Hispanidad in 1928. She is depicted as a Virgin with Child, in the style of Iberian "black virgins".
Conversely, the Virgin of Guadalupe of Mexico, who appeared to Juan Diego in 1531, is the patroness of Mexico, the Americas, and the Philippines, serving as a symbol of national identity. Her iconography portrays the Virgin alone, standing on a black moon with solar rays.
The name "Guadalupe" derives from the Spanish river and means "river/mirror of light." The shared name has led to confusion, but the Church and scholars emphasize the distinction between the two devotions. In 2023, the sanctuaries of both Virgins established a "sister sanctuaries" agreement, fostering mutual veneration between the two countries.