Basilica of Our Lady of Tongre, Minor basilica in Tongre-Notre-Dame, Belgium
The Basilica of Our Lady of Tongre is a Baroque church building with a long nave and a wide transept that together create its main structure. The interior space features high arches, a main altar, and several smaller chapels throughout.
The current basilica was built starting in 1777 by architect J.F. Demarbaix to replace an earlier Gothic church dating back to the 13th century. This new building continued the role of the site as a place of religious devotion that had existed for centuries.
The seated Madonna and Child inside draws pilgrims from across the region who come to pay their respects to this central object of devotion. Visitors and donors have left marks of their faith here for generations.
The basilica is easily accessible on foot, and the interior accommodates visitors who wish to pray or explore the architecture. It is helpful to check ahead for service times, as religious ceremonies may affect access for tourists.
A brotherhood was established at this site following reports that the Virgin Mary had appeared in a local noble's garden. This medieval account still shapes the place's identity and its importance to the surrounding region today.
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