Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida Guide
A Place of Faith: Visit the World's Largest Marian Shrine Guide
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is one of the largest and most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. Dedicated to Our Lady of Aparecida, the patron saint of Brazil, the basilica draws millions of visitors each year seeking spiritual solace, offering prayers, and experiencing the grandeur of this magnificent structure. Even for non-religious visitors, the sheer scale and artistic beauty of the basilica are awe-inspiring. The story of the basilica begins with the miraculous discovery of a broken statue of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in the Paraíba do Sul River in 1717. Three fishermen, after a day of fruitless labor, cast their nets one last time and pulled up the body of the statue, followed by its head. After this, their nets were suddenly filled with fish. This event was seen as a divine sign, and the statue became a symbol of hope and faith for the local community. A small chapel was built to house the statue, and as devotion to Our Lady of Aparecida grew, so did the need for a larger sanctuary. The current basilica, a modern architectural marvel, was consecrated in 1980. Visitors can attend mass, explore the various chapels and shrines within the basilica, admire the stunning stained-glass windows and mosaics, and climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the city. The complex also includes a museum, a shopping center, and numerous restaurants. The area surrounding the basilica offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries serving traditional Brazilian fare to more upscale restaurants. Be sure to try *pastel*, a popular fried pastry filled with various savory or sweet fillings, often sold by street vendors near the shrine.
Transportation
Aparecida is well-connected by bus. Many bus companies operate routes from major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro directly to Aparecida's bus terminal. From the terminal, you can take a local bus or taxi to the Basilica. Within Aparecida, local buses circulate frequently around the city and the Basilica area. Look for buses with signs indicating 'Santuário Nacional' (National Shrine).
Opening Hours
The Basilica is generally open daily from early morning to late evening, but hours may vary. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket Price
Admission to the Basilica is free. However, there may be fees for certain attractions within the complex, such as the observation tower.