Basilica of the Immaculate Heart of Mary ai Parioli, Rome, Italy Verified listing

Basilica of the Immaculate Heart of Mary ai Parioli, Rome, Italy

The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, located in Piazza Euclide in Rome, stands as a significant architectural landmark. Armando Brasini (1879–1965) designed the church, and work on the construction began in 1923. Brasini envisioned a Greek cross inscribed in a circle, with a detailed façade. However, the original design included a grand dome, which was never realized. Instead, the builders completed a smaller drum in 1951, which gives the church its distinctive appearance.

Construction finished before 1936, and in that year, the church became a parish. The Congregation of Missionary Sons of the Sacred Immaculate Heart of Mary, also known as the Claretian Missionaries, took charge of the church’s administration. Over time, the church’s influence grew, and it gained recognition. In May 1959, Pope John XXIII elevated the church to Minor Basilica status, marking a significant moment in its history.

Then, in February 1965, Pope Paul VI made the basilica a titular church, linking it to a cardinal. Ángel Herrera Oria, a prominent Spanish cardinal, became the first titular priest. Since then, other cardinals have held the title. Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja S.J. now serves as the basilica’s titular priest, continuing its legacy in the Catholic community.

Today, the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Heart of Mary continues to attract visitors and pilgrims from around the world. Its rich history, stunning design, and connection to the Claretian Missionaries contribute to its lasting importance. As a result, the basilica remains an essential part of Rome’s religious and architectural landscape, and its influence only continues to grow each year.

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