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February 2024 by Grace K.
Today I visited the Basilica of The National Shrine to look for gifts and to enjoy the beauty and serenity of this amazing temple. Of course I spent more time than I intended but it was well worth it. I found out that the gift shop opens at 9:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm. Between the shrine and the gift shop one can easily spend all day.
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February 2024 by Marie P.
Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land of America is a wonderful place to visit. It is run by the Franciscan priests. It is has superb replicas of shrines in Israel, catacombs in Rome, an archive, a library, and a beautiful garden. For Catholics, daily Mass is celebrated with confessions heard every hour on the hour. It is located at 24th and Quincy Streets in DC.
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December 2023 by Timothy C.
Absolutely the most beautiful church I have ever seen. You have to really explore this place to truly appreciate it. Definitely go downstairs to the crypt church during your visit. A must see!
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November 2023 by M. Carina M.
First time visiting and I love it! I would be bringing friends and family from on when they visit me here in Virginia. Also, check out the gift shop. Lots of stuff to choose from for yourself or as a gift to love ones. Just don't forget to have it blessed by your priest before giving it away.
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October 2023 by Chris C.
Our last trip to Alexandria Virginia included a tour of the National Basilica and what a spectacular building! We were greeted at entry by Catherine and Maria who were a joy and pleasure to chat with prior to the start of the tour. Catherine led our tour starting with the Crypt Level followed by the Upper Church Level. There are 80 chapels ( Not all covered by the tour) each with unique features, paintings and sculptures. Amazing! This is a must see then in the Alexandria, Va/Washington DC area. Plenty of parking, close to major highways and so much to take in. We look forward to a return visit!
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August 2023 by Randy M.
Beautiful basilica even if you're not Catholic it's worth seeing.. rivals many Mexican and European cathedrals and basilicas.. beauty everywhere
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July 2023 by H H2
One of the most beautiful Sanctuaries I've ever been to.
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May 2023 by Anthony F.
One of the most beautiful churches in America, they have a book store and gift shop available as well as several smaller chapels built inside the church...daily confessions are available....Just amazing
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April 2023 by Kamrin P.
An absolute must-see for anyone in the area. I went here for Easter mass, which was nothing short of divine. The architecture alone is worth visiting, even if you aren't Catholic.
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January 2023 by Arrt T.
The largest Catholic church in the Western Hemisphere. I frequent this church driving over from Baltimore and its always worth the drive. Must-visit even just to be in awe of the architecture.
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January 2023 by Temima N.
I'm not a Catholic myself but I attended a mass with my boyfriend and we walked around afterwards. It was truly a gorgeous building and I could see so much detail & attention made to the architecture. Very beautiful place.
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January 2023 by Eva G.
This Shrine is a must visit when in Washington DC. It was so beautiful, peaceful and serene here that I was overcome with emotion. I took my time perusing everything, prayed and even lighted several candles (a small donation for each) to remember my angel loved ones as well. Such a exquisite place.
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October 2022 by MattiasFen
Had some great books, but didn't find a Polish bible. For some reason foreign Bibles are very hard to find. They did have a good selection of Spanish language books, including Bibles.
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October 2022 by Matthew O.
Definitely one of the must see sights in DC! Truly awe inspiring when you walk in. Words really can't describe how amazing this building is. Everything is just so ornate and it makes you really appreciate how much time and effort it takes to build and maintain this church. On top of being an amazing architectural work, this place just gives you that feeling of serenity and peace. Even if you aren't religious, I think walking in and just sitting in the pews will still move you on an emotional state in some ways. Really fantastic place to come visit :)
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September 2022 by Michael S.
This is one of the most beautiful and expansive churches in the country. Catholic or not (we aren't) a visitor can't help but be drawn in to the beauty of variety of the many chapels and mosaics designed by and dedicated to people around the world. I highly recommend reserving a spot on a tour. It takes about an hour, and there is a lot that can be overlooked if not focused upon. There was a snack bar, which was closed, and a gift shop, which has a lot of kitch mixed in with the more religious mementos. Skip these if you like, and spend your time in the sanctuary and downstairs among the chapels. It's an hour well spent in appreciation of great religious art.
