It is the only basilica in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the title of Mediatrix of All Graces.
The sanctuary grounds host the most significant religious event in the state, drawing over half a million pilgrims annually.
The first chapel on this site was built in 1928, with the current basilica construction beginning in 1935.
The basilica's design includes a crypt that serves as a burial place for significant figures in the local church history.
The massive bells in the tower were imported from Italy to mark the sanctuary's dedication.
The statue of the Virgin housed in the sanctuary was brought from France in the early 20th century.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady Mediatrix is the primary Catholic pilgrimage site in Rio Grande do Sul, recognized as a minor basilica. It serves as the focal point for the annual Romaria da Medianeira, a massive religious procession held each November. The current structure replaced an older chapel to accommodate growing numbers of devotees following the regional devotion to the Mediatrix of All Graces. The sanctuary features a prominent clock tower and a spacious interior designed to facilitate large-scale liturgical gatherings. It functions as the seat of the Archdiocese of Santa Maria. The architectural design integrates elements of traditional religious building styles typical of Southern Brazil. The site includes extensive grounds used for prayer and outdoor religious ceremonies.
From the front plaza looking toward the main entrance to capture the full architectural facade and clock tower.
Visit the back gardens for a quieter, reflective experience away from the main nave.
Check the local archdiocesan calendar before visiting, as the site can be extremely crowded during major religious feast days.
Respect ongoing liturgical services by maintaining silence throughout the interior.
Attempting to visit during the annual Romaria procession weekend unless you intend to participate in the large-scale religious event, as traffic and access are severely restricted.
Extremely crowded and potentially restricted access during the second weekend of November due to the annual pilgrimage.
