Our Lady of Guadalupe, 482 years later

Her feast today. Thanks to Ed Mechmann for sending the article at this link.

Dr. Aldofo Orozco, researcher and physicist, has expressed amazement at how the 481-year-old Tilma has survived so many years without decay. “All the cloths similar to the Tilma that have been placed in the salty and humid environment around the Basilica,” Dr. Orozco explained, “have lasted no more than ten years.” A painting of the image on cloth which had been protected behind glass was discarded after only eight years, because the colors had faded and the threads had broken so badly.

The Tilma, meanwhile, was displayed unprotected for 116 years, exposed to the heat of tens of thousands of candles and to the harsh, humid and salty air; yet it remains vibrant.

More great stuff if you hit the link.