During your visit to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe, explore the church and Blessed Sacrament Chapel, the Mother & Child Outdoor Chapel, and Rosary Garden, all connected by large, tranquil walkways lined with tropical trees and other vegetation. If time permits, shop the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe gift store.
The Church and Blessed Sacrament Chapel
Start your visit to the basilica in the church and Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Here you can learn how the basilica welcomes individuals from around the world, inspires reverence and how its new liturgy reveals Mary’s place in God’s plan.
Sacred Art in the Church and Blessed Sacrament Chapel
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe boasts an impressive collection of sacred art, much of which is displayed throughout the church and Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Crafted of white carrara marble, extracted from the quarry of Caves de Michelangelo in Pietrasanta, Italy, the sculpture Mary, Queen of the Universe greets visitors upon entering the church and Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Sculptor Jill Burkee intended to depict a simple girl of Nazareth while representing the Queen chosen by God and brilliantly does so with the statue’s overall design of the Madonna and Child. Discover Ecclesiastical art including the Basilica Tabernacle, the dwelling place for the divine presense constructed by Jerzy Kenar in 1993. Key mosaics include the Basilica Coat of Arms, Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Papal Coat of Arms. The shrine’s 4 portals of faith, made of a brilliant bronze relief, frame the archways of mosaic images. Notable paintings that adorn the walls include Madonna and Child by Diana Mendoza, Pieta by H.J. Sinkel and Return of the Prodigal Son by Solomon Moiseevich Gershov. You can’t miss the buildings magnificent stained glass windows that brighten interior worship spaces and portray sacred history and Biblical teachings.
Mother & Child Outdoor Chapel
Wander beyond the church and Blessed Sacrament’s beautifully-crafted bronze doors and across the shrine’s grounds to the Mother & Child Outdoor Chapel. Construction on the Mother & Child Outdoor Chapel began in December of 1984 and within 2 years, the initial facility was completed. Step inside the chapel walls and admire the inspiring 12-foot bronze work, Mother & Child, one of the first renowned pieces commissioned by sculptor Jerzy Kenar. The sculpture of Mary reaching out to her Divine Child is a universal symbol of motherhood and a reminder of the beauty and vibrant nature of life itself.
Rosary Garden
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe’s Rosary Garden is an attraction all its own. Featuring a path of stones laid out in the shape of a rosary surrounded by neatly planted flowers, small ponds and other lush landscaping, the Rosary Garden was constructed in honor of the shrine’s patron, Pope John Paul II. The sense of calm the Rosary Garden exudes provides an opportunity for relaxation and meditation.
Shopping at the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe
If time permits, browse the shop at the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. Books, crucifixes, jewelry, lawn and garden decorations, music and movies, rosaries and statues are available for purchase.