Zaragoza - Basilica del Pilar

The Basilica del Pilar is the largest Baroque church in Spain. It was erected 1681 - 1754, succeeding much older churches here.

Since early times pilgrims come to "Nuestra Señora del Pilar" ("Our Lady of the Pillar"). A legend tells, that in 40 AD Saint Jaques (Saint James) was preaching the gospel on the banks of the Ebro without success. When he was disheartened, Mary appeared atop a pillar, assuring him, that the people would eventually be converted and their faith would be as strong as the pillar she was standing on.

Mary gave him the pillar and a wooden image of herself. She then asked Saint Jaques to build a chapel on the spot.