Interesting Facts About Basilica Of The National Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception - Fun Facts About Basilica Of The National Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception

Perfectly blending Romanesque and Byzantine styles, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the largest Roman Catholic Church in the United States; in fact, in North America. This eighth largest religious structure in the world is situated on Michigan Avenue in the northeast quadrant of Washington, close to the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center. With over a million American and foreign tourists visiting this shrine every year, this only proves the popularity and significance of the Latin Rite Catholic basilica. Apart from a place of worship, the basilica is also a pilgrimage, evangelization and reconciliation spot. Browse on further through the lines below to learn some more interesting and fun facts about the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Interesting & Fun Facts About Basilica Of The National Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception

The concept of building a national shrine was first initiated in 1909, but it was only in 1920 that the ground was first broken to begin its construction.
The land on which the basilica stands proudly was donated by The Catholic University of America.
The basilica is a result of honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, bestowed with the title of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.
The fourth rector of the Catholic University of America, Bishop Thomas Joseph Shahan proposed to construct the national shrine in the memory of Mother Mary in the United States.
The project was handled by Philadelphia contractor John McShain, under the directorship of Father Bernard McKenna.
Though a traditional Gothic architectural style was chosen in the beginning, Bishop Shahan opted for a Byzantine-Romanesque design to give the shrine a bold and glorious appearance.
Even though the church was incomplete, it opened for the general public first on November 20, 1959.
After the final touches on the mosaics that cover the Redemption Dome in the Upper Church, the basilica was declared complete in August 2007.
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is distinguished for its unique and spectacular architecture, stunning sacred art and rich Catholic and American history and heritage.
The basilica measures 459 feet long, 240 feet wide and 237 feet tall to the top of the cross on the dome.
Stylish and massive, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has 70 chapels and oratories relating the people, traditions and cultures that are in sync with the Catholic faith and mosaic of the United States.
The basilica houses the largest collection of contemporary ecclesiastical art in the world.
The state-of-the-art basilica has numerous entertainment options. Some of them being Catholic gift shop, Catholic book store and a cafeteria to comfort its visitors. Apart from this, the basilica also conducts guided tours through the church.
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception offers six Masses and five hours of Confessions daily, and special Masses, devotions, pilgrimages, and concerts on Holy days and holidays.
The basilica has a capacity of seating 3,500 worshippers at one time, accommodating 6,000 visitors in total.

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