The miraculous icon originally wept in 1696, 1715, and 1905, incidents documented by official ecclesiastical investigations.
The original icon was moved to Vienna in 1697 to protect it from war, and a copy now resides there, while the Máriapócs icon is a reproduction of that original.
The church was elevated to the status of a Basilica Minor in 1948, the first in the Hungarian Greek Catholic Church.
The architecture is defined by its two prominent towers and the central dome, which were renovated to reflect 18th-century stylistic elements.
The church serves as the primary pilgrimage center for the Eparchy of Nyíregyháza.
The Saint Michael the Archangel Greek Catholic Church in Máriapócs is one of Hungary's most significant pilgrimage sites, centered around a weeping icon of the Virgin Mary. The current Baroque-style basilica was constructed between 1731 and 1756 to house the miraculous icon. The interior features an elaborate iconostasis and ornate religious frescoes characteristic of Greek Catholic tradition. In 1948, Pope Pius XII granted the church the rank of Basilica Minor. The original 17th-century icon, known for its historic incidents of shedding tears, is displayed above the main altar. The site serves as the spiritual heart for Greek Catholics in Hungary, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually for major religious feast days. The complex includes a surrounding courtyard designed to accommodate large processions and outdoor liturgical services.
The main entrance at the top of the stairs on Kossuth tér offers the best view of the baroque facade.
Visit during the annual August feast day to witness major pilgrimage processions.
Check the local church calendar for liturgical schedules, as the basilica remains an active place of worship rather than a museum.
Walk the courtyard to view the various religious monuments and stations present in the sanctuary gardens.
Avoid taking photographs inside during active liturgy or religious services, as this is strictly prohibited.
None.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required; maintain silence as it is a working place of active prayer.
