Basílica Sacro Cuore di Gesú. Rome, Italy

 

The Basilica del Sacro Cuore di Gesù a Castro Pretorio (Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus) is a beautiful church located near Termini Station in Rome, Italy. It was built in the late 19th century and consecrated in 1887. The basilica was commissioned by Saint John Bosco (Don Bosco), founder of the Salesian Order, with support from Pope Pius IX, to serve as a spiritual center for young people and travelers arriving in Rome.

Designed by architect Francesco Vespignani, the church is built in a neo-Gothic style with striking marble details, stained glass windows, and a magnificent main altar dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica also houses a statue of Don Bosco, a crypt containing his relics, and beautiful side chapels that reflect Salesian devotion and spirituality.

Today, the Salesians of Don Bosco continue to serve at the basilica, maintaining it as a place of prayer, Eucharistic adoration, and youth outreach. It remains a peaceful and inspiring site for pilgrims and visitors seeking a moment of reflection amid the busyness of Rome.