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Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus

Egypt·Cairo·Apostolic Vicariate of Alexandria of Egypt

The Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus is a Roman Catholic minor basilica located in Cairo, Egypt, dedicated to Thérèse of Lisieux. Constructed in 1931-1932, it serves as a significant pilgrimage site, with hundreds of votive tablets in its crypt attesting to the saint's intercession. The basilica holds importance for both Egyptian Catholics and Copts.

Key Facts

  • Construction of the basilica was completed in 1932.
  • It was officially designated a minor basilica on July 8, 1972.
  • The church is under the jurisdiction of the Apostolic Vicariate of Alexandria of Egypt.
  • Hundreds of votive tablets in the crypt attest to the saint's intercession.
  • A nearby metro station on Line 2 is named after Saint Theresa.
Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus
Canonical Name
Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus
Construction Start Year
1931
Designation Year
1972
Century Built
20th century
Status
active

About Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus

The Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus is a Roman Catholic minor basilica situated in Cairo, Egypt. It is dedicated to Thérèse of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun whose devotion has resonance among both Egyptian Catholics and Copts. The foundation stone for the church was laid in 1931, with construction concluding in 1932.

Religious Significance and Pilgrimage

The basilica holds considerable religious importance, serving as a significant pilgrimage site. The crypt features hundreds of votive tablets adorning its walls, which are tangible evidence of the intercession attributed to Saint Therese. This devotion underscores the saint's widespread veneration within Egypt.

Administration and Accessibility

Administratively, the Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus falls under the circumscription of the Apostolic Vicariate of Alexandria of Egypt. The church was officially decreed a basilica on July 8, 1972. For visitors utilizing public transportation, a nearby station on Cairo's Line 2 metro is named in honor of Saint Theresa, facilitating access to the site.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus built?

The foundation stone was laid in 1931, and construction was completed in 1932.

To whom is the Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus dedicated?

The basilica is dedicated to Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as Saint Therese of the Child Jesus.

What is the significance of the votive tablets in the basilica?

Hundreds of votive tablets covering the walls of the crypt serve as testimonials to the granted intercession of Saint Therese.

Which Catholic diocese oversees the Basilica of St Therese of the Child Jesus?

The basilica is under the circumscription of the Apostolic Vicariate of Alexandria of Egypt.

Is there public transportation near the basilica?

Yes, the metro station on Line 2 closest to the basilica is named after Saint Theresa.