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Dyersville, Iowa: Basilica of Saint Francis Xavier

 

The history of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier:

Here, among the corn fields of Iowa, you will see one of the minor basilicas in the United States: the Minor Basilica of Saint Francis Xavier. The influx of German immigrants to the area resulted in the first church being built in 1865, and then later enlarged in 1880, and then finally, construction began on the current building in 1888.

Saint Francis Xavier Church was raised to the status of Minor Basilica by Pope Pius XII in 1956, one of 53 Basilicas in the U.S. at that time. It is one of the few Basilicas located outside a major metropolitan area.

 

About the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier today:

The current building towers over much of the area, with its twin spires rising 212 feet above the base. Beautiful stained glass windows and gold leaf adorments give a feeling of reverence so often found in the Cathedrals of Europe. The Basilica has a seating capacity of about 1200.

The side doors are open daily 7:00 am – 8:00 pm.

Traveling to the Basilica of Saint Francis Xavier in Dyersville:

The Basilica is about a 30 minute drive west of Dubuque.

Address: 104 3rd St. SW, Dyersville, Iowa 52040

GPS coordinates: 42° 29′ 3.3684” N, 91° 7′ 35.1084” W

Tel:   +1 (563) 875-7325 (rectory)     +1 (563) 875-7325 (for group tours)

e-mail: stfrancisxavier@iowatelecom.net

Click here for the official website of the Minor Basilica of Saint Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa.

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