Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar

Housing some of Spain’s most magnificent treasures, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is the single most important landmark of the city of Zaragoza in Spain. Standing tall in Baroque style, it is said to be the first church named for the Virgin Mary after a vision of her took place here in 40 AD. It is said that the small wooden statue of her given to St. James in the vision still resides in the basilica. A Roman style stone pillar from the 15th century holds a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus.
Our Lady of the Pillar is considered the patroness of Spain, and the site draws thousands of pilgrims each year. It is the second biggest church in Spain (after the Seville Cathedral,) and its plaza in front is the largest pedestrian plaza in the country. Its holy chapel is painted by the famous artist Goya.

Practical Info

The basilica can be found in the city of Zaragosa in the Aragon region of Spain, and reached via its main entrance on the Plaza de Orbradoiro.