Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington DC {Pictorial}

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC is the largest Roman Catholic Church in North America and one of the most beautiful man-made places I’ve ever seen. The divinely ornate mosaic domes top this tallest habitable structure in DC–home to 82 Marian chapels celebrating versions of Mary all over the world. Regardless of your faith, the beauty of its Upper Church is surreal.  The lower Crypt Church, where photography is forbidden, is just slightly less impressive–though it can be argued that the depths of lament can be greater than exaltation.