Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka
Sri Lanka’s National Marian Shrine
About Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka
The Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka, located in Tewatta near Ragama, stands as the most important Catholic pilgrimage shrine in Sri Lanka and a profound symbol of faith, hope, and national devotion. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title 'Our Lady of Lanka', the basilica represents the spiritual heart of Sri Lankan Catholicism and a place where prayer is deeply intertwined with the nation’s modern history. The origins of this sacred site trace back to 1911, when a small grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes was established by missionaries. During World War II, as Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) faced the looming threat of invasion, the country’s Catholic bishops made a solemn vow to build a national shrine to the Virgin Mary if the island was spared from the horrors of war. Remarkably, Sri Lanka remained untouched by direct conflict, and in fulfillment of this vow, construction of the basilica began in 1947. Consecrated in 1954 and elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica by Pope Paul VI in 1974, the Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka has since become a beacon of Marian devotion in South Asia. The architectural design blends European basilica elements with local influences, creating a serene and dignified atmosphere that invites contemplation, repentance, and renewal. The interior is marked by graceful arches, stained glass, and the revered statue of Our Lady of Lanka, crowned as Queen of Sri Lanka. Pilgrims from across the island — and beyond — journey here seeking spiritual solace, healing, and guidance. The annual feast in February transforms Tewatta into a sea of devotion, with candlelit processions, rosary prayers, and solemn Masses celebrated in multiple languages, reflecting the unity and diversity of Sri Lanka’s Catholic community. More than a religious monument, the basilica stands as a testament to gratitude, peace, and unwavering faith — a sacred sanctuary where personal prayers meet national history, and where the Virgin Mary is venerated as a compassionate protector of the island and its people.
Key Highlights
- Visit Sri Lanka’s National Shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
- Experience a place of prayer rooted in Sri Lanka’s modern history and wartime vow.
- Attend Mass and Marian devotions held in multiple languages.
- Witness the annual feast celebrations held every February.
- Explore the serene architecture and peaceful basilica grounds.
Top Experiences
Things To Do
- Offer prayers before the statue of Our Lady of Lanka inside the basilica.
- Walk around the peaceful shrine grounds and grotto areas.
- Attend confession and spiritual retreats organized at Tewatta.
- Visit nearby churches and religious centers in Ragama and Negombo.
- Experience Marian hymns and devotions during major Catholic festivals.
- Visit St. Anthony's Church in Kirimatiyagara, a revered Catholic pilgrimage site located nearby.
Photo Gallery
A visual journey through Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka
Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka – Main Facade
The main facade of the Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka in Tewatta, set amid spacious courtyards and greenery, welcoming pilgrims to Sri Lanka’s national Marian shrine.
Marian Sanctuary Beneath the Blue Dome
The Marian sanctuary inside the basilica, featuring the statue of Our Lady of Lanka beneath a radiant blue dome, creating an atmosphere of reverence, silence, and prayer.
Central Nave and Marian Altar
A wide view of the central nave leading toward the Marian altar, highlighting the basilica’s symmetry, arches, and contemplative interior design.
Basilica Courtyard and Side Wing
The inner courtyard and side wing of the basilica complex, featuring arched windows, stone walls, and domed roofs that blend European and local architectural styles.
Side Chapel with Domed Roof
A circular side chapel within the basilica grounds, distinguished by stone construction and a domed roof, offering a quiet space for prayer and devotion.
Outdoor Way of the Cross Shrine
A crucifix shrine set among the wooded landscape of Tewatta, forming part of the outdoor Way of the Cross where pilgrims pause for reflection and prayer.
Pilgrimage Walkways at Tewatta
Tree-lined walkways within the shrine grounds, designed for prayerful walks, meditation, and quiet spiritual reflection in a natural setting.
Main Altar Prepared for Liturgical Celebrations
The main altar area prepared for major liturgical celebrations, adorned with ceremonial seating and decorations beneath the Marian dome.
New Grotto & Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes
The New Grotto and Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes at Tewatta, built in elegant stone architecture and surrounded by forested serenity, offering a sacred space for Marian devotion.
Angel Statue at Chapel Entrance
A stone angel statue positioned at the entrance of a chapel within the shrine grounds, symbolizing divine protection, guidance, and spiritual watchfulness.
New Grotto & Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes
The New Grotto and Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes, built into a natural rock formation at the Tewatta shrine, offers a serene space for prayer and reflection, inspired by the Marian apparition at Lourdes.
Lourdes Grotto Prayer Area
A peaceful prayer area beneath the Lourdes Grotto, where the natural rock overhang forms a sacred shelter for pilgrims to light candles, offer prayers, and experience quiet contemplation.
Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes – Forest View
The Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes as seen through the surrounding forest, highlighting its stone architecture and tranquil setting that invites pilgrims to approach the shrine in prayerful meditation.
St. Anthony's Church Kirimatiyagara – Night View
St. Anthony's Church in Kirimatiyagara illuminated at night, showcasing its twin towers and Gothic-style stone façade, creating a striking and serene atmosphere for evening worship and prayer.
St. Anthony's Church Kirimatiyagara – Festive Façade
The beautifully lit front façade of St. Anthony's Church, Kirimatiyagara, decorated during a festive season, reflecting the church’s spiritual significance and vibrant parish life.
Interior of St. Anthony's Church Kirimatiyagara
The calm and reverent interior of St. Anthony's Church, Kirimatiyagara, with neatly arranged pews and festive decorations, offering a peaceful setting for prayer and liturgical celebrations.
Church Grounds at St. Anthony's Church Kirimatiyagara
A night-time view of the church grounds and side structure of St. Anthony's Church, Kirimatiyagara, adorned with decorative lights, highlighting its welcoming ambiance and community-centered environment.