The Zapotec people celebrate annual pilgrimages in honor of the Holy Cross Guelabe’ñe’ (lizard) and Guzebenda (fishermen), religious festivities carried out by devotees of these ancestral figures.(Juchitán, Mexico)
Starting early, from 5:00 a.m., each society gathers at the mayordomos’ house to begin the pilgrimage.
The route passes through the main streets of Juchitán, accompanied by women, men, and children of faith, who head to the sacred site located 10 kilometers north of the city, near the Guie Estuary (Stone Estuary) and the Superior Lagoon in Playa Vicente.
As the group advances along the route, the number of pilgrims grows, reaching more than 2,000 people by the end of each journey.
Guelabe’ñe
On November 30, the Guelabe’ñe’ pilgrimage traveled along the Juchitán–Unión Hidalgo highway, covering approximately 2.5 kilometers before entering the Bií Hioxo wind farm area. At this point, the traditional “posadas” took place—stations along the path where the cross is welcomed with prayers, and pilgrims are offered food and drink to regain their strength before continuing the journey.
Within the wind farm area, a total of six posadas were held. Notably, some Bií Hioxo landowners acted as hosts, including Mr. Jaime, Mrs. Julieta Cabrera Matus, and Mr. Jesús Hernández Noriega.




Guzebenda
On December 14, the Guzebenda pilgrimage followed the same route between Juchitán and Unión Hidalgo. However, unlike other pilgrimages, this one included a greater number of posadas, extending the journey to approximately 10 hours until reaching the sanctuary.
Many people take part in this tradition to ask for blessings, fulfill promises, or simply honor a deeply rooted ancestral custom. On this occasion, some posadas were hosted by individuals such as Mrs. Na’ Gris and Mr. Norberto Guerra Jiménez.


