Old Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, Aparecida, Brazil Verified listing

Old Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida, Aparecida, Brazil

The Cathedral Basilica National Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception of Aparecida, also called the National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Aparecida, is Brazil’s largest Catholic temple. It ranks second worldwide, smaller only than St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. However, it is the largest cathedral because St. Peter’s Basilica does not function as a cathedral. Moreover, the sanctuary spans over 143,000 square meters, providing space for worship, devotion, and reflection for millions of pilgrims each year.

The basilica sits in Aparecida, São Paulo state. Visitors reach it via the Passarela da Fé, a walkway connecting the modern basilica with the old church. Consequently, pilgrims experience both tradition and continuity along this sacred path. Pope John Paul II consecrated the basilica on July 4, 1980, during his first visit to Brazil. In addition, the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil recognized it as a National Sanctuary in 1984, highlighting its spiritual and cultural importance.

Furthermore, four popes have visited: John Paul II, Benedict XVI, Francis, and Leo XIV, emphasizing its global significance. In November 2016, Pope Francis designated it as the Cathedral Church of the Archdiocese of Aparecida. This decision transferred the cathedral title from the Church of Santo Antônio in Guaratinguetá. As a result, the basilica now functions both as a cathedral and a national shrine.

Every year, around 12 million pilgrims visit the sanctuary. In 2017, it welcomed a record 13 million visitors. Altogether, the Cathedral Basilica National Sanctuary of Our Lady of Aparecida symbolizes faith, devotion, and Brazilian Catholic identity. Moreover, it attracts worshippers and tourists from across Brazil and worldwide, offering a remarkable experience of spirituality, art, and culture.

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