The National Basilica of Luján: The construction project (1887-1890)

Abstract

To commemorate the 125th anniversary of the pontifical coronation of the image of Our Lady of Luján, the patroness of Argentina, the author traces the history of the various oratories, chapels and temples that have been dedicated to her, since 1630, miracle year, stopping at the beginning of the construction of the monumental neo-Gothic Basilica, recognized as one of the most important of its kind in America. The project, in the design and development corresponds to Father Jorge Maria Salvaire, a Vincentian priest, with the continued support of the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Monsignor Federico León Aneiros. The Basilica holds particular historical and pastoral importance due to the presence of the original image of Our Lady of Luján, a small statue of the Immaculate Conception, made of baked clay then painted and dressed in the Spanish style with crown.