See the Basilica Less Than a Mile From Disney World | Catholic Destinations
When the new Walt Disney World opened in 1971, millions of tourists flooded into Orlando, Florida. To minister to Catholic tourists, the Diocese of Orlando arranged for Masses to be celebrated in nearby hotels. This quickly turned into a full-blown tourist apostolate, and in the mid-80s ground was broken for what is now the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. Ranked as one of the top attractions in central Florida, this unique and impressive shrine sits less than a mile from Disney World and two miles from Universal Studios. Quick facts: -The church started as a diocesan shrine, then became a National Shrine and was later declared a Minor Basilica in 1993. -Today the Shrine welcomes approximately 10,000 visitors each weekend. - It is estimated that 27,000-30,000 confessions are heard every year at the Shrine. Thanks for joining us for Summer Vacation with Catholic Destinations. A brand …More