Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Uganda·Lodonga·Diocese of Arua
The Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Basilique Notre-Dame d’Afrique, is a Roman Catholic minor basilica situated in Lodonga, Uganda. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, it is a significant religious site within the Diocese of Arua. The basilica was consecrated in 1961 and has undergone restoration following damage sustained during a period of conflict.
Key Facts
- ›It is a minor basilica dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
- ›The basilica is located in Lodonga, Uganda, within the Diocese of Arua.
- ›Construction was initiated in the 1950s by Reverend Father Pietro Valcavi, a Comboni Missionary.
- ›It was dedicated on May 26, 1961.
- ›The basilica suffered damage during the war that led to the removal of IDI Amin from power in 1979.
- ›Restoration efforts began in 1990, supervised by Brother Udeschini Giuseppe and Father Toni.
Comboni Missionaries
About Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known by its French name, Basilique Notre-Dame d’Afrique, is a Roman Catholic minor basilica located in Lodonga, Uganda. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and falls under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Diocese of Arua.
Construction and History
The initiative to construct the basilica began in the 1950s, spearheaded by Reverend Father Pietro Valcavi, a member of the Comboni Missionaries. He worked in conjunction with Father Bernardo Sartori, Reverend Father Toni La Salandra, and Brother Arosio, receiving the blessing of Monseigneur Angelo Negri for the project. The basilica was officially dedicated on May 26, 1961.
Damage and Restoration
The structure of the basilica experienced damage during the conflict that led to the ousting of Idi Amin from power in 1979. Following this period, significant efforts were undertaken to repair and restore the building. These restoration works commenced in 1990 and were overseen by Brother Udeschini Giuseppe and Father Toni, ensuring the basilica's continued service as a place of worship.
Location
Lodonga, where the basilica is situated, is in the Yumbe District of Uganda. The town is approximately 17 kilometers by road to the west of Yumbe Town, the district's administrative center. It lies about 75 kilometers northeast of Arua, which is the principal city in the West Nile sub-region.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary located?
The Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located in Lodonga, Yumbe District, Uganda. It is situated approximately 17 kilometers west of Yumbe Town and about 75 kilometers northeast of Arua.
When was the Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary dedicated?
The basilica was dedicated on May 26, 1961. This event marked its official opening as a place of worship.
What is the significance of the Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary?
It is a Roman Catholic minor basilica dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and serves as a significant religious site within the Diocese of Arua.
Has the basilica undergone any damage or restoration?
Yes, the basilica was damaged during the war that saw Idi Amin removed from power in 1979. Repairs and restoration work commenced in 1990.
Who was involved in the construction of the basilica?
Construction was initiated by Reverend Father Pietro Valcavi, a Comboni Missionary, in the 1950s. He collaborated with Father Bernardo Sartori, Reverend Father Toni La Salandra, and Brother Arosio, with the blessing of Monseigneur Angelo Negri.
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