Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Visiting the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception


The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the largest Roman Catholic church in North America and one of the 10 largest in the world. Every year approximately a million people visit the Basilica to attend Mass and /or tour the church and its numerous chapels.

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Approaching the
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Built in the early 1920s, the Basilica's architecture is truly stunning, both inside and out. Additionally, there is much beautiful artwork located throughout all the chapels. 

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception


The church is amazing, during my visit a choir was practicing and we sat and listened for a while. Afterward, we toured a number of the chapels. Each one has its own unique features and all were striking; the Basilica notes there are more than 70 chapels. The elaborate detail and artistry are amazing.

Choir singing at the Basilica
Choir practice






Looking up at the ceiling at the Basilica of the National Shrine of theImmaculate Conception


A number of Masses are held daily. Visitors also can have lunch and /or purchase Catholic and Christian gifts from the gift shops. The Basilica is inspiring to people of any religion/belief.

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is located at 400 Michigan Ave. NE, Washington, D.C. 20017.  Parking is free, and I found parking in the spacious lot to be relatively easy. Or if you prefer the Metro, you can take the Red line (Brookland/CUA station); it is a .04 mile walk according to Google Maps.

4 comments:

  1. I haven't been here since I was a teen, but I remember being impressed even then. Great photos.

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  2. Thanks! Last year was actually my first time, and I agree, very impressive. I look forward to going back.

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  3. I have visited this Basilica and it is very beautiful. It was interested to find out that our United States was consecrated to our Blessed Mother.

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    Replies
    1. Thanks so much Mike for visiting and commenting. I want to go back again.

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