Basilica of Regina Pacis, Minor basilica in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, US
The Basilica of Regina Pacis is a Renaissance Revival church in Brooklyn's Dyker Heights neighborhood, distinguished by a large ceiling mural that dominates its interior. The artwork, created by Ignacio LaRussa, depicts the Coronation of Our Lady Regina Pacis in Heaven and reaches approximately 52 feet high, serving as the visual centerpiece of the space.
Construction of the basilica began in 1948 as a fulfillment of a pledge made during World War II to build a shrine honoring the safe return of servicemen. This origin rooted the building in the spiritual concerns and gratitude of the neighborhood during the post-war period.
The basilica serves as a gathering place where services are held in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Italian, mirroring the different communities that have made this neighborhood their home. The mix of languages reflects how the parish has remained connected to the people around it.
The basilica sits at the intersection of 65th Street and 12th Avenue and welcomes visitors who want to explore its architectural features and interior art. Since regular masses are held throughout the week, it helps to plan your visit during quieter times to view the space and mural without interruption.
In 1952, two elaborate diamond-studded crowns crafted from parishioners' donated jewelry vanished from the basilica without explanation. The crowns reappeared after a week of community prayers, adding an unusual episode to the building's story.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
