About National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida
In 1717 three fishermen on the Paraiba River pulled up a small clay statue of the Virgin Mary, first the body and then the head. After their empty nets suddenly filled with fish, local people began to venerate the dark image, and a chapel grew into a shrine. Our Lady of Aparecida was later proclaimed patroness of Brazil. Over the centuries, reports of miracles spread, and the shrine became the spiritual heart of Catholic Brazil.
The modern basilica, in the shape of a Greek cross, is one of the largest Catholic churches in the world and can hold tens of thousands of people. The tiny image sits in a niche where pilgrims file past. The Room of Promises is filled with photographs, wax limbs and other offerings left in thanks for answered prayers, a moving record of popular faith. Popes have visited, and Pope Benedict XVI dedicated a golden rose to the image.
What to see
- Image of Our Lady of Aparecida
- Room of Promises (Sala das Promessas)
- Old Basilica on the hill
- Walkway of faith linking the basilicas
- Observation tower
Visiting National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida: practical guide
- Best time
- Year round; 12 October for the feast
- Hours
- Open daily from early morning to night
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Modest clothing
- Nearest airport
- Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), 160 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Weekends are very crowded
- Visit the Room of Promises below the nave
- Many pilgrims walk from Sao Paulo along a marked route
Festivals and special days
- Feast of Our Lady of Aparecida (12 October)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida?
National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is in Aparecida, Sao Paulo, Brazil, South America. GPS coordinates: -22.8569, -45.2306. The nearest airport is Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), 160 km.
What is the best time to visit National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida?
Year round; 12 October for the feast
Is there an entry fee for National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida?
Free Opening hours: Open daily from early morning to night
What should I wear when visiting National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida?
Modest clothing
Which religion is National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida sacred to?
National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida is sacred to Christianity. Active place of worship.
