Basilica Insider: The Great Dome
The Great Dome is one of the two visual hallmarks of the National Shrine. Covered in glistening polychrome tiles, it…
Category: Art of the Basilica
A Guide to Art: the Trinity Dome Windows
Circling beneath the Trinity Dome mosaic, 36 majestic stained-glass windows complement its shimmering gold…
Honoring Mary as the Mother of God: Virtual Art Tour
January 1 is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, which honors Mary’s role as the Mother of the Savior.…
A Guide to Basilica Art: Relief Sculptures
You might be wondering: what exactly is relief sculpture? Relief sculpting is when a medium is molded against a flat surface…
A Guide to Basilica Art: Ambulatory Windows of the Great Upper Church
In the four ambulatories of the Great Upper Church, there are four intricate stained-glass windows depicting the four ends of…
The Beginning and End: the Transept Mosaics of the Upper Church
In November of 1973, the twin mosaics The Creation and The Second Coming were dedicated. Hours upon hours of work…
Animals in the Art of the Basilica
Since the creation mandate, humans have been charged by God with the care and stewardship of the earth…
Basilica Insider: The Making of The Universal Call to Holiness
One of the largest relief sculptures in the world, The Universal Call to Holiness offers an awe-inspiring visualization of a…
Basilica Insider: The Art of Mary Stratton in America’s Catholic Church
The name Mary Chase Stratton may not be familiar to most American Catholics, but her indelible mark on sacred art…
9 American Landmarks Portrayed in the Basilica’s Art
Did you know that the Basilica’s specifically portrays Mary’s guardianship of the United States? The west and east transept galleries…