The Basilica of Saint Mary is a Catholic minor basilica and parish church in the Diocese of Arlington. It sits in Alexandria’s Old Town and Historic District. Notably, it holds the title of the oldest Catholic parish in Virginia. The parish began in 1795 when Francis Neale, then president of Georgetown University, founded it. He wanted to serve the growing Catholic community in the area.
Since then, the church has grown and flourished. Therefore, on December 6, 2017, Pope Francis raised the parish to the rank of minor basilica. The Vatican announced this honor on January 15, 2018. Naturally, this brought great joy to parishioners. Then, on September 8, 2018, the basilica held its inauguration Mass. This event marked a new chapter for the historic church.
The basilica also holds a treasured religious item. The 19th-century image of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception sits inside the church. Parishioners revere this image deeply. During the parish’s 100th anniversary in 1895, the community enthroned the image. Furthermore, for the 230th anniversary of the parish, the image received an episcopal coronation. On December 8, 2024, Bishop Michael Francis Burbidge performed the coronation. This solemn event strengthened the faith of all who attended.
In summary, the Basilica of Saint Mary combines deep history with living faith. It continues to inspire the people of Virginia. Moreover, it stands as a symbol of devotion and community in Alexandria’s historic district. Through its long story and spiritual mission, the basilica serves present and future generations alike.
Connectivity of Basilica of Saint Mary, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
Airways
The nearest airport is Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the basilica. It offers domestic flights connecting to major U.S. hubs. From the airport, visitors can take taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), or rental cars to the basilica.
Railways
The nearest Amtrak railway station is Columbia Amtrak Station, approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the basilica. It is served by the Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes, connecting New York, Washington D.C., and Miami. Visitors can reach the basilica from the station via taxi or local transit.
Roadways
Columbia is accessible via Interstate 26, Interstate 20, and U.S. Route 1. The Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (COMET) operates bus services throughout Columbia, with routes stopping near the basilica. Intercity bus services such as Greyhound also operate from downtown Columbia.
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Mass Schedule
Monday : 6:30 AM , 8:00 AM , 12:10 PM Tuesday : 6:30 AM , 8:00 AM , 12:10 PM Wednesday : 6:30 AM , 8:00 AM , 12:10 PM Thursday : 6:30 AM , 8:00 AM , 12:10 PM Friday : 6:30 AM , 8:00 AM , 12:10 PM Saturday : 8:30 AM , 5:00 PM Sunday : 7:00 AM , 8:30 AM , 10:00 AM , 11:30 AM , 1:00 PM , 5:00 PM
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Open hours today: 7:00 am - 7:00 pmToggle weekly schedule
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