100th Anniversary of the Blessing of the Land
May 16, 2020 is the 100th anniversary of the blessing of the site of the future Basilica of the National Shrine…
Category: Historic Events
A Moment in History: The Coronation Tiara of Pope Paul VI
Over fifty years ago, 6 February 1968, Archbishop Luigi Raimondi, Apostolic Delegate to the United States…
On This Day in History: The Laying of the National Shrine’s Foundation Stone
Today is a momentous day in the history of the National Shrine, especially as we prepare to commemorate…
A Moment in Basilica History: First Mass Celebrated in the Crypt Church 95 Years Ago
Every year, millions of people from all over the world visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception…
The Trinity Dome Dedication
On December 8, 2017, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and the patronal feast day of the National Shrine…
Dedication of Rosary Walk and Garden
On September 23, 2017, a day of pilgrimage for more than 2,000 of the faithful during the centennial year commemorating…
Pope Francis’s Visit to the National Shrine
Pope Francis arrived at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on September 23, 2015…
Jubilee Celebration
On November 20, 2009, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception celebrated the 50th…
Pope Benedict XVI Visits the Basilica
People of all ages, states, and walks of life from across America flocked to the nation’s patronal church awaiting the arrival…
Pope John Paul II Visits the Basilica
Early on the morning of Oct. 7, 1979, the National Shrine experienced what was described as its “finest hour” as the…