It was the first church in the United States to be granted the status of a minor basilica by the Vatican.
Architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray also designed the Cathedral of Saint Paul in the nearby capital city.
The building was constructed between 1907 and 1915 to accommodate the city's growing Catholic population.
The main dome is modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, though it is smaller in scale.
The original design included statues of saints that were added to the exterior facade decades after the building opened.
The church interior contains a replica of the tomb of Saint Theodosia.
The Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis is the first basilica established in the United States, designated by Pope Pius XI in 1926. Designed by Emmanuel Louis Masqueray, the structure features Beaux-Arts architecture characterized by a massive dome and neoclassical limestone exterior. The interior houses a prominent high altar made of Carrara marble and intricate stained-glass windows produced by the Munich Studio of Zettler. It sits on the edge of Loring Park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The church operates as a co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The building's dome reaches a height of 175 feet above the street level. Renovations in the early 21st century restored the terra cotta exterior and interior murals. It functions as a venue for both religious services and secular community concerts.
From the Loring Park side, looking toward the front facade to capture the scale of the dome against the park's greenery.
Self-guided tour brochures are often available at the entrance for those exploring the architectural details independently.
Check the official website for community concert schedules, as the acoustics in the nave are highly regarded.
Visit during the annual Basilica Block Party if you want to experience the grounds during the city's largest music festival.
Do not wander into restricted areas or private administrative offices; avoid visiting during funeral services or weddings to ensure privacy for grieving or celebrating families.
The Basilica remains open for worship year-round but may restrict tourist access during private ceremonies or major liturgical holidays.
Maintain a quiet, respectful tone; avoid photography during active religious services; modest attire is expected.
