Originally, a basilica was an ancient Roman public building, where courts were held, as well as serving other official and public functions.
Plan your visit St. Mark's Basilica Basilica - Pala d'Oro Basilica - Pala d'Oro - Cavalli Museum and Loggia Basilica - Museum and Loggia dei Cavalli Bell Tower of San Marco Museum and Lodge of the Horses
The term “basilica” originated in ancient Rome, from the Greek “basilike stoa,” meaning “royal hall.” These large public buildings served various civic functions, such as law courts, meeting places, and commercial spaces.
Access all the official services to better plan your spiritual journey in the Basilica: from tickets to guided tours, special access and useful information to enjoy a wonderful experience in the symbol of Christianity.
In architecture, “basilica” in its earliest usage designated any number of large roofed public buildings in ancient Rome and pre-Christian Italy, markets, courthouses, covered promenades, and meeting halls.
With over 80 chapels and oratories honoring the Mother of God and representing peoples from every corner of the globe, the Basilica reflects the cultural diversity of the United States.
The Basilica of Saint Mary is a community rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Be part of a vibrant community that celebrates faith, proclaims, serves, heals, learns, reflects, shelters, and aids.
Church buildings serve different purposes: Churches are general places of worship, cathedrals are the principal church of a diocese and seat of the bishop, basilicas are churches granted special privileges by the Pope, and chapels are smaller, more intimate spaces for prayer and worship.