Basilica of Our Lady of Luján

　　Argentina's population is over 90% Catholic, with Catholic churches of all sizes scattered throughout urban and rural areas. The Basilica of Our Lady of Luján (Our Lady of Luján National Basilica), located in the city of Luján about 67 kilometers from Buenos Aires, serves as the seat of the archbishop and is the national Catholic shrine.

　　Also known as Luján Cathedral, the Basilica of Our Lady of Luján was first built in 1887. It features a typical Gothic architectural style, with two tall, symmetrical bell towers at the front. At the top of high steps stands an arched gateway that is over ten meters high. The interior is resplendent, with huge stained-glass windows adding splendor while maintaining solemnity. The church houses a statue of the Virgin Mary from 1630. Legend has it that the carriage carrying the statue stopped here and would not move any further. According to tradition, this was the spot chosen by the Virgin herself to reside. On December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the faithful carry the statue out of the church and parade it in a grand procession. Devotees come to pray and fulfill vows at the Luján Cathedral year-round, and it’s common to see pilgrims crawling on their knees for long distances before entering the basilica—a remarkable sight rarely seen elsewhere. In front of the cathedral lies a vast square dotted with stalls selling religious souvenirs, which are very popular among visitors.

　　Address: Luján, Argentina