Basilica of St. Charles Borromeo and Mary Help of Christians, Buenos Aires, Argentina Verified listing

Basilica of St. Charles Borromeo and Mary Help of Christians, Buenos Aires, Argentina

The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians and Saint Charles in Buenos Aires is one of the most important works of the Salesian Order in Argentina. Built between 1900 and 1910, it reflects both spiritual vision and architectural mastery. The Italian architect Ernesto Vespignani directed the project after arriving in Buenos Aires in 1901. On June 24, 1900, Monsignor Antonio Sabatucci blessed the cornerstone for Pope Leo XIII. President Julio Argentino Roca and Teodelina Fernández de Alvear acted as godparents, showing deep national and religious support.

Architecturally, the basilica combines monumental design, fine acoustics, and Lombard Neo-Romanesque style. Its dome supports a lantern with a five-meter statue of Mary Help of Christians. The 64-meter bell tower and cross still define the skyline of the Almagro neighborhood. Inside, three levels — the crypt, middle temple, and upper temple — represent spiritual growth and unity. At the top, the “camarín de la Virgen” holds the revered image of Mary Help of Christians.

Saint John Bosco had blessed this image before it was brought from Paris to Buenos Aires in 1904. It was enthroned on May 24, 1910, marking the centenary of the May Revolution. Later, the temple gained recognition through its links with St. Peter’s Basilica in 1915 and Santa Maria Maggiore in 1924. In 1942, Pope Pius XII named it a minor basilica.

The interior includes a “Carlo Vegezzi Bossi” organ from 1910, inaugurated by Luis Ochoa before composer Pietro Mascagni. Today, the basilica remains vibrant. It offers daily Mass, confession, and community service. Moreover, it celebrates Saint John Bosco on January 31 and Mary Help of Christians on May 24, continuing Don Bosco’s mission of faith and education.

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