Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto is a significant minor basilica and national shrine in Venezuela, dedicated to Our Lady of Coromoto, the patroness of the country. It is built on the site where the Virgin is believed to have appeared to the Native American chief Coromoto, making it a place of great religious importance.
Key Facts
- ›Dedicated to our Lady of Coromoto, the patroness of Venezuela.
- ›Located 25 kilometers from the city of Guanare in Portuguesa, Venezuela.
- ›Built on the site of an alleged apparition of the Virgin Mary to Chief Coromoto.
- ›Construction began in the early 1980s, based on plans from 1975.
- ›Consecrated by Pope John Paul II in February 1996.
- ›Elevated to the dignity of a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI on October 20, 2007.
Our Lady of Coromoto
Juan Capdevila ElíAs, Erasmo Calvani
About Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto is a prominent minor basilica and national shrine located in Venezuela. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Coromoto, who holds the esteemed title of patroness of Venezuela, making the basilica a focal point of national religious devotion.
Religious Significance and Site
The shrine holds profound religious significance as it is built upon the very site where the faithful believe the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Coromoto, appeared to the Native American chief Coromoto. This miraculous event forms the spiritual foundation of the basilica.
Construction and Consecration
The architectural plans for the shrine were developed in 1975 by exiled Spanish architect Juan Capdevila Elías and Venezuelan architect Erasmo Calvani. Construction commenced in the early 1980s, though the project experienced several interruptions. The basilica was eventually consecrated by Pope John Paul II in February 1996, an event attended by over two million devotees. Its status was further elevated on October 20, 2007, when Pope Benedict XVI designated it a minor basilica.
Location
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto is situated approximately 25 kilometers from the city of Guanare, within the Portuguesa state of Venezuela. Its current pastor is the priest Allender Hernández.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Coromoto located?
The basilica is situated 25 kilometers from the city of Guanare, in the state of Portuguesa, Venezuela. It is considered a national shrine and a place of pilgrimage for devotees.
What is the religious significance of the basilica?
It is dedicated to Our Lady of Coromoto, the patroness of Venezuela. The shrine is built on the very site where the faithful believe the Virgin Mary appeared to the Native American chief Coromoto.
Who consecrated the basilica?
The basilica was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in February 1996. His consecration was attended by over two million devotees.
When was it designated as a minor basilica?
The basilica was elevated to the dignity of a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI on October 20, 2007. This designation recognizes its importance and status within the Catholic Church.
When did construction of the basilica begin?
The construction project was planned in 1975, but work did not commence until the early 1980s. The construction faced several interruptions before its completion.
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