Hail, true body,
born of the Virgin Mary,
Who truly suffered, sacrificed
on the cross for man,
Whose pierced side overflowed
with water and blood,
Be for us a foretaste
in the test of death.
This translation is only to provide a meaning, and is not intended for substitution.
The basilica, built between 1682 and 1704, is thought by many to be one of the most beautiful baroque churches in Bavaria. Encircling the entire nave is decorative plaster work and statues. The angels on the high altar are carved in white marble, and the choir stalls are also hand carved. There are additional altars in the transept and also in the six side chapels. The dome of the nave is 28 metres high. Some day we might talk about the skeletons of Waldsassen.
In 1803 the church became the Parish Church of Waldsassen, and then in 1969, Pope Paul VI, elevated the status of the church to “Basilica Minor”. The Papal Coat of Arms above the main entrance proves this honour.
photo credits:
Leonard Bernstein by Jack Mitchell
Basilica - Wikipedia
Altar angels - www.kuk-verlagsanstalt
