It is hard to comprehend the magnitude of this basilica. One of the most beautiful churches we have had the privilege of visiting, we take a guided tour. Although I don't know the exact seating capacity of the basilica, it has to be over 1,000; sadly high mass on Sunday mornings now bring only 150 - 200 of the faithful.
Although only a few dozen or so pipes are visible, there are in excess of 3,000. It must be awesome to hear on Sundays during high mass.
This is the famous turning pew. I believe it was first come, first serve for seating, but to relieve the charlie horse in your neck from watching the pulpit during the service, ushers would use the large brass hold (sadly not shown) to turn this pew 90 degrees so you would be facing the pulpit directly.
Our tour guide informs us this is the most valuable statue in the basilica. Several thousand cameras are located throughout to insure it's safety.
Located behind the main alter, this chapel commonly called the Wedding Chapel is where most weddings and funerals take place. You need to be a Celine Dion to be married in the main basilica.
Shown above, the private patio used only by the priests for contemplation and prayer.
The multi level pulpit, no longer used since the invention of microphones, was the reason for the turning pew shown earlier.
Finally, our last shot, the baptismal font. One word for the entire experience: Incredible!
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