Guadalupe-Arizona

Guadalupe is basically a Native American and Hispanic community and the ‘Little Mexico of the Valley of the Sun’. Located between Phoenix and Tempe at the base of South Mountain, this 1-sq. mile town will remain this size and enclosed by man-made boundaries such as the Interstate-10 and Phoenix City on the W, Baseline Road and Tempe on the N, the City of Tempe on the S, and the Highline Canal on the E.

All the goods of Mexico are just next door in Guadalupe, Arizona - roadside fruit stands, specialty shops, and the only authentic Mexican bakeries in the Valley.

Shop in the El Tianguis Market and you’ll see more Mexican food and lifestyle that you may not find elsewhere in Arizona.

Guadalupe-Arizona has earned the reputation of the best tasting and most authentic Mexican food in the Valley. Guadalupe is home to a mix of Latinos and Yaqui Indians and has maintained a strong cultural and ethnic identity.

It was the Yaqui Indians who founded the town around the turn of the century. The natives escaped Mexico from the persecution and enslavement threats of the government under Porforio Diaz, and entered Arizona to establish several villages.

The resident Anglos, together with Catholic and Presbyterian missionaries (who were responsible for the present Catholic Indian tribes), supported and sympathized with them thus providing shelter in the Salt River Valley’s agricultural economy.

The Yaqui community, with its self-identity and determination, stood on its own sustenance and stability. Later they were joined by the Hispanic population in the 1960s.

Eventually, Guadalupe, Arizona was incorporated as a town in 1975.

The 1910 Lady of Guadalupe Church is a historical site in Guadalupe, and is particularly beautiful at night amid the warm glow.

The Yaqui Temple is another historic significance. The Yaquis observe Lenten and Easter ceremonials that blend Catholic and Indian beliefs since way back 300 years ago. Visitors can observe but are not allowed to take pictures.

Other celebrations include carnivals, block party, car and bike shows, concerts, and parades.