Christopher McCarthy

Shrines of Italy: Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

Commissioned just one day after the canonization of Saint Francis, this minor basilica towers over the surrounding village of Assisi like a fortress. This maze of a complex is home to no less than two churches built in honor of the saint, and even houses his remains in an underground crypt.

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Shrines of Italy: Madonna della Corona

Built into the side of a sheer cliff face, the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is by far one of the most unique shrines in the world.

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Shrines of Italy: The Miracle of Lanciano

Home to the most famous Eucharistic Miracle in Catholic history, this Lanciano shrine is a hidden gem you won't want to miss.

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Shrines of Italy: The Holy House of Loreto

The birthplace of Our Lady according to legend, The Holy House of Loreto is one of the most significant shrines in Christian history. Countless saints have flocked to this site over the centuries with the intention to venerate the Mother of God in the very same house where the Annunciation took place.

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Shrines of Italy: Church of SS. Giovanni & Reparata

The original Cathedral of Lucca before the completion of Saint Martin's, this church is home to many important archaeological discoveries pertaining to the village of Lucca.

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Shrines of Italy: Cathedral of Saint Martin

One of the most prominent churches in Lucca, the Cathedral of Saint Martin is an obscure Gothic treasure with several hidden artifacts you wouldn't expect.

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Shrines of Italy: Santa Maria Novella

The first major cathedral ever built in Florence, Santa Maria Novella has a long and rich history.

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Shrines of Italy: Duomo di Milano

The cultural and spiritual epicenter of Milan, this ancient cathedral is one of the world's largest and most breathtaking.

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Shrines of Italy: Monte Cassino Abbey

The birthplace of the Benedictine Rule of Life, the ancient Abbey of Monte Cassino is home to the tombs of both St. Benedict and St. Scholastica.

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Shrines of Italy: Our Lady of Grace (St Philomena's Mugnano)

Here lie the remains of Saint Philomena, one of the most beloved martyrs of the early Church.

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Shrines of Italy: Basilica of St. Anthony

The famous Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, where his remains are reserved to this day.

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Shrines of Italy: Church of Saint Lorenzo

A simple parish hidden in Aviano, containing a lovely statue of Our Lady, unlike any I have seen before.

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Shrines of Italy: Santa Maria Gloriosa

Built in 1231 and dedicated to Our Lady's Assumption, it's one of the most prominent shrines in all of Venice.

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Shrines of Italy: San Simeone Piccolo

Lovely little church operated by the FSSP in Venice.

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Shrines of Italy: Santa Maria Assunta

A hidden gem located deep within the heart of Venice!

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