basilica of the national shrine of the assumption of the blessed virgin mary

It's was interesting and informational to visit a church with so much history. Where I live in the Midwest, old, historical buildings are not common and are much younger due to when the Midwest was settled. This church has a rich history and a welcoming staff. The entire church is opening for viewing. ( We visited while Mass was not being held.) The excavated basement and crypt were my favorite parts. A true gem in the heart of Baltimore. Note: Both Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa visited the Basilica in the 1990s.

Upon entrance into this newly renovated and absolutely beautiful Catholic Church, you cannot help but to have your heart and mind immediately lifted up to God! After Mass is over, be sure to take some time to walk around, pray, light a candle or two, and take in all that this wonderful place has to offer your soul!

The building is wonderful and newly restored, then re-restored after a recent earthquake. Great docents, but also welcomes people who just want to sit and pray or just look around. An important monument of early American architecture (look around the neighborhood for more early buildings), a bold statement about American religious freedom, etc. Don't forget to visit the Pratt Library building across the street.

When you live in or near a city many people skip the local sites. Do not skip this one. The Basilica is as beautiful as I have seen.

Needed to understand the history of the Basilica and what differentiated it from the Cathedral in Baltimore. The tour answers all those questions and more. Fine docent, too.

Even though it was closed when I went I was still able to enjoy the beautiful prayer garden outside. The building is stunning. The archdiocese is across the street and that is something to look at as well. I highly recommend both!

While in Baltimore, my wife and I visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. As we entered, I felt like it was a vivid back in time because of the architectural design of the church because they don't make churches as opulent as this shrine. I immediately felt my spirit lifted not only because of my catholic faith but it was bright and light in the Basilica. Prior to the noon mass starting, my wife and I were fortunate to be able to receive the sacrament of reconciliation. Then as mass was about to start, I noticed more catholics arriving for mass. My wife and I were disappointed because we wanted to buy a rosary but the gift shop was closed for inventory. Whether you are catholic or not, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a good place to stop and see.

The basilica is astoundingly beautiful!.You will be impressed. You should read up on the history first before paying a visit.

The acoustics are amazing and totally worth the visit just to look at the ceilings even if you're not Catholic.

This Basilica is gorgeous and worth visiting. Take time to visit the gardens as well. Attended Mass here and the people were lovely.

Enjoyed the beautifully painted ceilings and the items inside. There is a lovely Peace Garden in back.

This basilica is the first Catholic Cathedral built in the U.S, and was designed by the architect who designed many of the buildings in D.C. It has been renovated so is in very good shape. I attended a mass and the choir and organ were magnificent.

beautiful church inside and outside. Lots of light, white and enviting interior. Don't miss the sub-basement. Friendly tour guide at hand.

JMJ Have always wanted to visit America's first Cathedral and really enjoyed the visit. We're greeted as we walked in and given a brochure with a map which really helped. Take time to check out the lower level, The Crypt. Also remember to look up for the Cardinal's hat.( The hat of the deceased Archbishop's are hung high until they fall apart..) This place is beautifully maintained and can fill you with awe and wonder. Say a prayer for me when you visit.

We stopped here for mass while visiting Baltimore for our anniversary. How beautiful it is, and the choir added to the beauty. We parked in the garage next door, which is free until noon on Sunday (thank you to one of the ushers who explained this to me). We walked through the downstairs after mass and wish we had stayed for the tour - we didn't realize how much history there is to learn about at the Basilica - maybe next time.