On September 23, 1920, ground was dedicated for the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., a major Catholic church in the United States. The project aimed to create a national sanctuary devoted to the Virgin Mary. Construction proceeded in stages over many decades, funded largely by donations from American Catholics. The basilica has become a prominent pilgrimage site and venue for major religious events. Its architecture and artwork reflect diverse Catholic communities within the United States.
