Basilica of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, Minor basilica in Bad Staffelstein, Germany
The Basilica of the Fourteen Holy Helpers rises above the Main River valley with sandstone walls and elaborate Rococo details designed by architect Johann Balthasar Neumann in 1743. The building features a graceful dome and richly decorated interior set within rolling countryside.
A shepherd named Hermann Leicht reported a vision of fourteen saints in 1445, which led to the construction of an initial chapel at this location. The building that stands today developed later and became an important pilgrimage destination in Franconia.
The fourteen saints depicted at the central altar represent protectors whom pilgrims have called upon for centuries to seek help with illness and hardship. This tradition continues to shape the spiritual life of the place and draw visitors seeking intercession.
The building welcomes visitors year-round and sits on a hilltop with parking available near the entrance. From here, pilgrims can easily begin walks through the surrounding Franconian countryside.
The interior is arranged so that the central point of worship stands spatially apart from the main altar, marking the exact spot of the reported apparition. This unusual layout allows visitors to physically experience the location of the vision.
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