Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral
Taiwan·Kaohsiung·Kaohsiung
The Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, also known as the Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral, is the oldest Roman Catholic church and Minor Basilica in the Republic of China. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, it serves as the episcopal seat of the Bishop of Kaohsiung. The shrine was elevated to the status of Minor Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1995.
Key Facts
- ›Established between 1858 and 1860 by the Kingdom of Spain.
- ›Founded by Dominican priests Father Fernando Sainz and Father Angelo Bofurull.
- ›Rebuilt to its current size in 1928.
- ›Elevated to Minor Basilica status by Pope John Paul II on May 22, 1995.
- ›Features architectural styles modeled after Gothic and Romanesque.
- ›Houses an image of the Madonna and Child of the Holy Rosary dating back to 1863.
Gothic, Romanesque
Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
- Image of the Madonna and Child of the Holy Rosary
Dominican Order
Fernando Sainz, Angelo Bofurull
About Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral
Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
The Basilica Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, also referred to as the Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral, holds the distinction of being the oldest Roman Catholic church and a Minor Basilica within the Republic of China. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under the venerated title of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary and serves as the episcopal seat for the Bishop of Kaohsiung. Its significance is further marked by its elevation to Minor Basilica status by Pope John Paul II on May 22, 1995.
History and Architecture
The origins of the basilica trace back to 1858-1860, when the original cathedral was established by the Kingdom of Spain, with its roots in the Philippines. The foundational work was undertaken by Spanish Catholic priests, Father Fernando Sainz of the Dominican Order and Father Angelo Bofurull. The structure was later rebuilt to its present dimensions in 1928. Architecturally, the basilica draws inspiration from both Gothic and Romanesque styles, with its interior design bearing a resemblance to that of Manila Cathedral.
Religious Significance and Services
An important devotional item housed within the basilica is an image of the Madonna and Child of the Holy Rosary, which dates back to 1863 and is prominently displayed at the high altar. Daily Catholic Mass is offered at this shrine. Due to its proximity to the Love River, it has also become a popular destination for visitors, especially couples and families. The cathedral is widely recognized in Kaohsiung for its elaborate annual Christmas Eve celebrations, which continue throughout the entire evening leading up to Christmas Day.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral established?
The original cathedral was first established between 1858 and 1860 by the Kingdom of Spain. It was rebuilt to its present dimensions in 1928.
What is the architectural style of the Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral?
The architectural style is modeled after both Gothic and Romanesque influences. The interior design shares similarities with Manila Cathedral in the Philippines.
What is the significance of the image at the high altar?
An image of the Madonna and Child of the Holy Rosary, dating back to 1863, is enshrined within the high altar of the basilica.
When was the Holy Rosary Basilica Cathedral designated a Minor Basilica?
Pope John Paul II raised the shrine to the status of Minor Basilica on May 22, 1995, through a Pontifical decree.
What are some notable events held at the basilica?
The cathedral is known for its daily Catholic Mass services. It is also a popular tourist site, particularly for its annual Christmas Eve celebrations that extend throughout the evening.
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