Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, USA Verified listing

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, USA

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception stands in Washington, D.C. It serves as both a Catholic minor basilica and a national shrine. Moreover, it honors the Blessed Virgin Mary under her title of the Immaculate Conception. This title reflects her role as Patroness of the United States, officially declared by Pope Pius IX in 1847.

The basilica is the largest Catholic church building in North America. In addition, it is the tallest habitable building in Washington, D.C. Its architecture features both Romanesque Revival and Byzantine styles. Builders began construction on September 23, 1920. These styles reflect tradition and spiritual grandeur.

Pope Pius XI donated a mosaic image of the Immaculate Conception in 1923. The artwork remains a highlight of the shrine. Therefore, the basilica serves not only as a sacred place but also as the patronal church of the Catholic Church in the United States.

Over the years, the basilica has received several honors. For example, Pope John Paul II raised the shrine to the status of a Minor Basilica. He issued the decree Clarum Constat Templum on October 12, 1990. Later, Pope Benedict XVI visited the shrine during his 2008 apostolic trip. At that time, he bestowed the Golden Rose, a rare papal honor.

Additionally, Pope Francis celebrated a canonization Mass at the shrine. On September 23, 2015, he canonized Junípero Serra on the east steps of the basilica. Many consider this event a historic moment in American Catholicism.

In conclusion, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception stands as a monument of faith and national devotion. It continues to welcome and inspire pilgrims from across the country and the world.

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