National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Charity
The National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Charity del Cobre is a Roman Catholic minor basilica located in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. It is significant for housing the Virgin of Charity del Cobre, a colonial-era statue revered as a national icon and the Patroness of Cuba. The basilica was constructed in 1926 and serves as a major pilgrimage site.
Key Facts
- ›The basilica is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, specifically to the Virgin of Charity del Cobre.
- ›It houses the revered Virgin of Charity del Cobre statue, a significant Catholic national icon of Cuba.
- ›The basilica was built in 1926 in the village of El Cobre, near Santiago de Cuba.
- ›It is situated on the hill 'Cerro de la Cantera' and is accessible by a flight of 254 steps.
- ›The church features a central bell tower and two side towers topped with red-brick domes.
- ›The basilica was officially decreed on December 22, 1977.
Traditional Church Architecture
Virgin of Charity Del Cobre Statue
About National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Charity
National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Charity del Cobre
The National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Charity del Cobre is a significant Roman Catholic minor basilica located in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. This basilica is a focal point of religious devotion, primarily for housing the revered statue of the Virgin of Charity del Cobre. This colonial-era depiction of the Virgin Mary is considered a Catholic national icon and holds the title of the Patroness of Cuba.
History and Architecture
The current basilica was constructed in 1926 and is situated in the village of El Cobre, approximately 12 miles west of Santiago de Cuba. The edifice stands on the hill known as 'Cerro de la Cantera' and is connected to the village by a prominent flight of 254 steps. Architecturally, it is described as a three-aisled church, distinguished by a central bell tower and two flanking side towers. These towers are elegantly crowned by red-brick domes, contributing to its distinctive silhouette.
Religious Significance and Designation
The basilica falls under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Santiago de Cuba. Its importance as a religious site was further recognized when it was officially decreed as a basilica on December 22, 1977. The presence of the Virgin of Charity del Cobre statue makes it a vital pilgrimage destination for Cubans and visitors alike, symbolizing faith and national identity.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Charity located?
The basilica is located in the village of El Cobre, approximately 12 miles west of Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.
What is the significance of the Virgin of Charity del Cobre?
The Virgin of Charity del Cobre is a colonial-era statue and a Catholic national icon of Cuba, revered as the Patroness of Cuba. It is housed within the basilica.
When was the basilica built?
The basilica was constructed in 1926.
What is the architectural style of the basilica?
The basilica is described as a three-aisled church with a central bell tower and two side towers crowned by red-brick domes. While specific style names are not provided, the description suggests a traditional church architecture.
When was the basilica officially recognized?
The basilica was officially decreed on December 22, 1977.
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