Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, is located in Zaragoza, Aragon. It is a Catholic church and the first Marian temple in Christianity built in honour of the Virgin Mary.
You can admire the Baroque style of architecture that will take you back in time to when it was constructed. Marvel at the exquisite dome paintings around the holy chapel by González Velázquez. You can also meditate in the peaceful environment of the Chapel of Our Lady of Pilar. Offer prayers to the main altar, which is made of polychrome alabaster with a wooden dust cover. Be a part of the mass, a catholic ritual where people all together pray together for guidance and wisdom. Spot the two bombs that were dropped on the church during the Spanish Civil War of 1936-1939. In addition, you can explore the rich history of organ and music by observing instruments of the Spanish Golden Age.
Highlights
• Witness the first Marian temple in Christianity, Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, built in honour of the Virgin Mary.
• Marvel at the Baroque style of architecture that will take you back to the time of its construction.
• Take a glance at the bombs that were dropped on the church during the Spanish Civil War of 1936-1939.
• Discover the instruments of the Spanish Golden Age in the Organ and Music section, portraying the musical activity of that era.
• Offer prayers in the main altar of the Gothic Church, made of polychrome alabaster with a wooden dust cover.
How To Reach
By Car: Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is approximately 3 km from the city centre of Zaragoza, Aragon, via P.º de María Agustín and P.º Echegaray y Caballero. You can cover the distance in 8 minutes by a cab.
By Foot: The attraction is around 1.4 km from the city centre via Av. de César Augusto and C. de Alfonso I. You can cover the distance by a 20-minute walk on the route.
Best Time To Visit
Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is a year-round place, so plan your visit as per your availability and seasonal preferences.
Best day in the week: The best day in the week to visit Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is throughout the week except on Mondays.
Best time of the day: The best time of the day to visit Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is during the time of mass.
Other Essential Information
Visitor Tips:
- While visiting the Basilica, dress modestly, especially during the time of mass.
- Maintain a peaceful environment by putting your phone on silent and talking politely.
- Wheelchair accessibility is available for physically challenged people.
- Wear sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun during summer.
- Refrain from throwing the litter anywhere and throw it in the nearby dustbin.
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated and some light snacks to enjoy with your loved ones.
- Tripods are restricted inside the Basilica so you can only take handheld pictures.
- Consider visiting during the mass to get to know about the attraction comprehensively.
Explore the Pilarista Museum
Explore the antique items inside the Pilarista Museum, which features a permanent exhibition. The main highlight is the jewellery box of the Virgin that displays the crowns, diadems, radiances, more than 350 Virgin mantles and a collection of priceless stones. Also, you can behold the vast collection of liturgical metalwork objects and other notable items. Get a chance to learn more about the rich ancient history of the Basilica while exploring the museum.