Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington

This Christian Temple gave me an overall feeling of gentle and calming power in the air around my body. The ambiance of calm ushered me to awe and prayer in the Sanctuary of the Cosmic Christ. .. an experience of ease and peace; I didn't want to leave. The building is majestic and maternal. This is not just a modern building ... there is a Force and a peace that becons me from the orther side of the earth.

Absolute must see. It is conveniently located near the Catholic University Metro Station. Beautify mosaics and architecture. A true gem.

The Basilica is one of the most beautiful places Ive visited. With many mini cathedrals, there is always something to observe, see, or pray in. The mood is very reverent and quiet, and anyone can appreciate the beauty and artistic talent that went into the Basilica. We werent planning on visiting, but I am glad we did. Unlike the memorials and other tourist attractions in DC, this costs nothing and is not crowded. Must visit for DC.

Beautiful outside and inside! We went to a Saturday evening (5:15 PM) church service - wonderful organ music, too! Visitor parking is readily available. The Basilica transforms with spectacular lighting at night. A real architectural masterpiece.

I loved the Basilica. It was a very moving and artisitic stop while visiting D.C. I am catholic so maybe thats why I found it extra special. The art work was amazing, and it seems to go for miles. The gift shop was great too! Our Italian tour guide however could take a few lessons in nice quote "lets go people" "quickly quickly lets move". I wondered why we must get yelled at and hurry through something so wonderful?

The candle light glinting off of the mosaics in the dozens of little chapels, the obvious joy on the faces of those around you, and the open hearted nature of the clergy make it very easy to forget everything going on outside of these walls. Highly recommended.

The Basilica is inspiring to people of all faiths, but especially to Catholics. The artwork is beyond comprehension. It shows our Mother in every facet and name that we know Her, making the Basilica truly universal.

There are many chapels to visit in the church! If you have a chance to go there for Mass you should do it. This is typically the location for Mid-night Mass held on Christmas Eve which is shown on TV for the US.

I come to the Shrine monthly to accompany my husband,who volunteered to usher and a member of the Knights of Columbus, here in Virginia Beach, VA and each time we come I feel so blessed to be in this great sanctuary. The feeling is just not the same everytime I come here!

The Basilica is a place I would recommend anyone to visit ,Been at the Basilica ,you felt at peace,It was such an experience for me,I would love to visit there over and over,I was in the Columbia area visiting from Jamaica to the St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church,We came from the St Thomas More Catholic church in Jamaica,to visit the St John's catholic church,so our host took us to Washington for two days,and the Basilica was one of the many places we visited ,oh! I didn't want to leave,thats one of my favourite place I must visit again ,thank God the day I chose to go on the trip to Baltimore...I will be back!!