Site type guide
Shrine
Crawlable taxonomy page generated from the current site detail schema and used in the internal linking graph.
Traditions represented here
165 sites
Browse this type across countries, traditions, and sacred landscapes.
Abu Haraz
Wad Madanī, Aj Jazira, Sudan
Abu Haraz is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 14.48624, 33.50259. Attributes: built, cultural. Tradition: Sufi.
Ak Ishan
Baharden, Ahal, Turkmenistan
Ak Ishan is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 38.63560, 57.20987. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Ak Ishan is a shrine in the Ahal Region of Turkmenistan. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage-sites in the country. Ak Ishan is located 140 km west of Ashgabat. Ak Ishan is a popular place for worship also because the sanctuary is located 1.5 km from the famous balneological resort Archman. Patients of this resort tend to make a pilgrimage to the holy place. Located in Ahal welaýaty, Türkmenistan.
Altotting
Altötting, Bavaria, Germany
Altotting is a marian shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 48.22624, 12.67654. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Virgin Mary. Located in Altötting, Bayern, Germany.
Amanoiwato Shrine
Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan
In a forested gorge in Kyushu's Takachiho region, pilgrims have gathered for centuries at the cave where Amaterasu, the sun goddess and ancestress of Japan's Imperial line, hid from the world. The darkness that fell when she withdrew—and the wild dance that drew her back—gave birth to kagura, the sacred performance tradition still enacted here through winter nights. Priests guide visitors to view the cave, while nearby, stone cairns rise by the thousands where eight million kami once gathered.
Assumption of Virgin Mary
Brno, South Moravian Region, Czechia
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous interventions, healing prayers
Atago Shrine (Atago Jinja)
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Atago Shrine crowns Mount Atago at 924 meters, the highest point surrounding Kyoto. As head shrine of approximately 900 Atago shrines across Japan, it anchors the nation's network of fire prevention worship. Here, the fire god Kagutsuchi is honored not as destroyer but as guardian. The demanding climb to reach the shrine transforms pilgrims before they receive the mountain's protective blessing.
Atago Shrine (Atago Jinja)
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Atago Shrine crowns Mount Atago at 924 meters, the highest point surrounding Kyoto. As head shrine of approximately 900 Atago shrines across Japan, it anchors the nation's network of fire prevention worship. Here, the fire god Kagutsuchi is honored not as destroyer but as guardian. The demanding climb to reach the shrine transforms pilgrims before they receive the mountain's protective blessing.
Atago Shrine (Atago Jinja)
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Atago Shrine crowns Mount Atago at 924 meters, the highest point surrounding Kyoto. As head shrine of approximately 900 Atago shrines across Japan, it anchors the nation's network of fire prevention worship. Here, the fire god Kagutsuchi is honored not as destroyer but as guardian. The demanding climb to reach the shrine transforms pilgrims before they receive the mountain's protective blessing.
Atsuta Shrine
Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Atsuta Shrine houses Kusanagi-no-tsurugi, the Grass-Cutting Sword—one of three sacred objects that legitimize Japan's Imperial throne. The sword has not been seen publicly since the 7th century. Found by the god Susanoo in the tail of an eight-headed serpent, passed to Amaterasu, and inherited by the legendary warrior Yamato Takeru, it represents the martial virtue of Japan itself. Nine million pilgrims visit annually, making Atsuta second only to Ise Grand Shrine in Shinto sanctity. The treasure hall displays over 4,000 artifacts, including 174 Important Cultural Properties.
Azemmur
Azemmour, Casablanca-Settat, Morocco
Azemmur is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 33.28717, -8.34652. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Associated figure: Mulay Busaib. Located in Azemmour أزمور, Pachalik d'Azemmour, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب.
Baba Dhansar, Jammu
Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Baba Dhansar, Jammu is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 33.02739, 74.87149. Attributes: built, natural, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Hinduism. Associated figure: Lord Shiva. Mythological context: Hindu mythology. Located in Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Badjo
Gonaïves, Artibonite Department, Haiti
Badjo is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 19.50994, -72.64004. Attributes: built, cultural, ceremonial. Tradition: Vodou. Located in Commune des Gonaïves, Département de l'Artibonite, Ayiti.
Bahoutdin Architectural Complex
Kasri Arifan, Bukhara Region, Uzbekistan
Bahaoddin Naqshband Bokhari Shrine is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 39.80234, 64.53732. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Baha al-Din al-Naqshbandi. Located in Buxoro Viloyati, Oʻzbekiston.
Bandiagara
Bandiagara, Mopti, Mali
Bandiagara is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 14.34980, -3.60961. Attributes: built, cultural. Tradition: Dogon; also recognized in Dogon, Fulani, Bambaras contexts. Bandiagara (French pronunciation: [bɑ̃djaɡaʁa]) is a small town and urban commune in the Mopti Region of Mali. The name translates roughly to large eating bowl —referring to the communal bowl meals are served in. Mainly on its Bandiagara Escarpment it has about 2,000 speakers of the vibrant Bangime language, an isolate used mainly as an anti-language; it has the highest point of the country. Bandiagara is 65 km east-southeast of Mopti. A seasonal river, the Yamé, flows in a northeasterly direction through the town. The population includes a number of different ethnic groups including Dogons, Fulani and Bambaras. Located in Bandiagara, Mopti, Mali.
Basilica of Notre-Dame du Port
Clermont-Ferrand, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Romanesque church treasure, UNESCO World Heritage, healing miracles
Basilica of Our Lady of Knock, Queen of Ireland
County Mayo, Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, Ireland
Basilica of Our Lady of Knock, Queen of Ireland is a christian shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 53.79176, -8.91753. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Our Lady of Knock, Queen of Ireland. Located in Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, Éire / Ireland.
Basilica Shrine of Caravaca de la Cruz, Spain
Caravaca de la Cruz, Region of Murcia, Spain
Basilica Shrine of Caravaca de la Cruz, Spain is a basilica shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 38.10764, -1.85864. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Cross of Caravaca. Located in Caravaca de la Cruz, Región de Murcia, España.
Bayazid Bostami
Bayejid Bostami, Chittagong Division, Bangladesh
Bayazid Bostami is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 22.38923, 91.80906. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Bayazid Bostami. Located in চট্টগ্রাম, চট্টগ্রাম বিভাগ, বাংলাদেশ.
Black Madonna of Assisi
Assisi, Umbria, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Franciscan devotion, pilgrimage site
Black Madonna of Bari
Bari, Apulia, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Madonna Odegitria, Byzantine tradition
Black Madonna of Bologna
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for San Luca Madonna, famous procession tradition
Black Madonna of Breznice
Capital City of Prague, Prague, Czechia
Black Madonna shrine known for Ancient pilgrimage statue, miraculous protection
Black Madonna of Covadonga
Cangas de Onís, Asturias, Spain
Black Madonna shrine known for La Santina, patroness of Asturias, Reconquista symbol, healing
Black Madonna of Częstochowa (Eureka, MO)
Eureka, Missouri, United States
Black Madonna shrine known for Second US shrine to Częstochowa Madonna, healing prayers
Black Madonna of Daurade
Toulouse, Occitania, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Fertility and childbirth miracles, patroness of women in labor
Black Madonna of Dublin
Dublin, Leinster, Ireland
Black Madonna shrine known for Polish community shrine, immigrant devotion
Black Madonna of Esch-sur-Sûre
Bourscheid, Diekirch, Luxembourg
Black Madonna shrine known for Medieval pilgrimage site, protection of town
Black Madonna of Florence
Florence, Tuscany, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Multiple Black Madonna artworks in churches
Black Madonna of Jasna Góra (copy)
Jerusalem, Jerusalem District, Israel
Black Madonna shrine known for Replica in Abbey of Dormition, Polish pilgrimage site
Black Madonna of Kaltenleutgeben
Kaltenleutgeben, Lower Austria, Austria
Black Madonna shrine known for Copy touched to Altötting original (1766), miracle-working
Black Madonna of Langenzersdorf
Langenzersdorf, Lower Austria, Austria
Black Madonna shrine known for Einsiedeln copy (1708), local devotion
Black Madonna of Lavanttal
Sankt Andrä, Carinthia, Austria
Black Madonna shrine known for Schwarze Madonna von Loreto, basilica pilgrimage
Black Madonna of Loretto Burgenland
Loretto, Burgenland, Austria
Black Madonna shrine known for Entire village named after Madonna, 17th century monastery
Black Madonna of Maria Loretto Peninsula
Klagenfurt, Carinthia, Austria
Black Madonna shrine known for Holy House replica (1652), lakeside pilgrimage site
Black Madonna of Moulins
Moulins, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Ancient pilgrimage site, healing miracles
Black Madonna of Munich
Munich, Bavaria, Germany
Black Madonna shrine known for Patrona Bavariae, Marian Column protection
Black Madonna of Naples
Naples, Campania, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Madonna dell'Arco and other local Black Madonnas
Black Madonna of Oropa
Biella, Piedmont, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Fertility and healing miracles, statue becomes supernaturally heavy when moved, largest Marian shrine in Alps, crowned by Popes
Black Madonna of Palermo
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Various Black Madonnas in Sicilian tradition
Black Madonna of Perugia
Perugia, Umbria, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Medieval devotion, regional pilgrimage
Black Madonna of Pontoise
Pontoise, Metropolitan France, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Medieval pilgrimage site, healing miracles
Black Madonna of Prešov
Prešov, Region of Prešov, Slovakia
Black Madonna shrine known for Baroque Black Madonna of Loreto, Greek Catholic Cathedral
Black Madonna of Regensburg
Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
Black Madonna shrine known for Alte Kapelle (Old Chapel) Madonna, royal devotion
Black Madonna of Rome
Rome, Lazio, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Various Black Madonna shrines including Santa Maria Maggiore
Black Madonna of Sevilla
Seville, Andalusia, Spain
Black Madonna shrine known for Multiple Black Madonna shrines, La Macarena tradition
Black Madonna of St. Servatius
Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands
Black Madonna shrine known for Star of the Sea (Stella Maris), ancient devotion
Black Madonna of Vaals
Holset, Limburg, Netherlands
Black Madonna shrine known for Border pilgrimage site, healing shrine
Black Madonna of Vichy
Vichy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Healing spa town patron, miraculous waters association
Black Virgin of Taganrog
Taganrog City District, Rostov Oblast, Russia
Black Madonna shrine known for Cemetery chapel icon, local veneration
Black Virgin of the Recollects
Verviers, Liège, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous healing, local pilgrimage site
Brezje
Radovljica, Slovenia
Brezje is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 46.32902, 14.23240. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Virgin Mary. Brezje may refer to: Bosnia and Herzegovina Brezje, Čelić, a village Brezje (Goražde), a village Brezje (Rogatica), a village in Republika Srpska Brezje (Višegrad), a village Croatia Brezje, Sveta Nedelja, a village near Sveta Nedelja, Zagreb County Brezje, Dubrava, a village near Dubrava, Zagreb County Brezje, Krapina-Zagorje County, a village near Gornja Stubica Brezje, Međimurje County, a village near Sveti Juraj na Bregu Brezje Dobransko, a village near Skrad Brezje Dravsko, a village near Cestica, Varaždin County Brezje Miholečko, a village near Sveti Petar Orehovec Brezje Vivodinsko, a village near Ozalj Slovenia: Brezje, Cerknica – Municipality of Cerknica, southwestern Slovenia Brezje, Mozirje – Municipality of Mozirje, northeastern Slovenia Brezje, Novo Mesto – City Municipality of Novo Mesto, southeastern Slovenia Brezje, Radovljica – Municipality of Radovljica, northwestern Slovenia Brezje, Sevnica – Municipality of Sevnica, southeastern Slovenia Brezje, Škofljica – Municipality of Škofljica, central Slovenia Brezje, Sveti Jurij ob Ščavnici – Municipality of Sveti Jurij ob Ščavnici, northeastern Slovenia Brezje, Zagorje ob Savi – Municipality of Zagorje ob Savi, central Slovenia Brezje nad Kamnikom – Municipality of Kamnik, northern Slovenia Brezje ob Slomu – Municipality of Šentjur, eastern Slovenia Brezje pod Nanosom – Municipality of Postojna, southwestern Slovenia Brezje pri Bojsnem – Municipality of Brežice, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Dobjem – Municipality of Dobje, eastern Slovenia Brezje pri Dobrovi – Municipality of Dobrova-Polhov Gradec, northwestern Slovenia Brezje pri Dobu – Municipality of Domžale, central Slovenia Brezje pri Dovškem – Municipality of Krško, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Grosupljem – Municipality of Grosuplje, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Kumpolju – Municipality of Litija, central Slovenia Brezje pri Lekmarju – Municipality of Šmarje pri Jelšah, eastern Slovenia Brezje pri Lipoglavu – City Municipality of Ljubljana, central Slovenia Brezje pri Ločah – Municipality of Slovenske Konjice, northeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Oplotnici – Municipality of Oplotnica, eastern Slovenia Brezje pri Podplatu – Municipality of Rogaška Slatina, northeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Poljčanah – Municipality of Slovenska Bistrica, northeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Raki – Municipality of Krško, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Rožnem Dolu – Municipality of Semič, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Senušah – Municipality of Krško, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Slovenski Bistrici – Municipality of Slovenska Bistrica, northeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Šentjerneju – Municipality of Šentjernej, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Trebelnem – Municipality of Trebnje, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Tržiču – Municipality of Tržič, northwestern Slovenia Brezje pri Veliki Dolini – Municipality of Brežice, southeastern Slovenia Brezje pri Vinjem Vrhu – Municipality of Semič, southeastern Slovenia Brezje v Podbočju – Municipality of Krško, southeastern Slovenia Brezovica pri Črmošnjicah – Municipality of Semič, known as Brezje until 1955, southeastern Slovenia Hudo Brezje – Municipality of Sevnica, southeastern Slovenia Staro Brezje – Municipality of Kočevje, southern Slovenia Located in Radovljica, Slovenia.
Casa de Yemanjá
Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Casa de Yemanjá in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
Chak Chak
دهستان رباطات, Yazd Province, Iran
Chak Chak is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 32.34808, 54.40877. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Zoroastrianism. Chak Chak may refer to: Chak Chak, Fars, a village in Iran Chak Chak, Yazd, a village in Iran Shak-shak (AKA Chack-chack), an Antillean musical instrument Çäkçäk, a sweet dessert of Tatar, made of honey and pastry Located in دهستان محمدیه, استان یزد, ایران.
Church of St Jean du Grund (Black Madonna of Grund)
Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Black Madonna shrine known for Historic pilgrimage statue, protection of the city
Church of the Black Madonna
Letnicë, Gjilan District, Kosovo
Black Madonna shrine known for Feast of Assumption pilgrimage, healing miracles, inter-ethnic pilgrimage site
Czestochowa
Częstochowa, Silesian Voivodeship, Poland
Czestochowa is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 50.81259, 19.09701. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Virgin Mary. Located in Częstochowa, województwo śląskie, Poland.
Dan-gol
Taebaek-si, Gangwon State, South Korea
Dan-gol is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 37.09571, 128.91520. Attributes: built, natural, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Shamanic. Associated figure: Dangun. Located in 태백시, 대한민국.
Darbar Hazrat Mian Mir Bala Pir, Lahore, Pakistan
Punjab, Pakistan
Darbar Hazrat Mian Mir Bala Pir, Lahore, Pakistan is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 31.54871, 74.36019. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Hazrat Mian Mir. Located in پنجاب, پاکستان.
Darbar Hazrat Sakhi Sarwar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab
Sakhi Sarwar, Punjab, Pakistan
Darbar Hazrat Sakhi Sarwar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 29.98656, 70.30213. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Islamic. Associated figure: Hazrat Sakhi Sarwar. Located in پنجاب, پاکستان.
Darbar Hazrat Usman Marvandi Lal Shahbaz Qalandar
Sehwan, سندھ, Pakistan
Darbar Hazrat Usman Marvandi Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 26.42880, 67.86223. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. Located in سہون شریف, سندھ, پاکستان.
Darende
Darende, Eastern Anatolia Region, Turkey
Darende is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 38.57685, 37.49195. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Somunca Baba. Darende (Turkish: Darende [daɾændæ] ) is a municipality and district of Malatya Province, Turkey. Its area is 1,482 km2, and its population is 24,588 (2022). It lies 46 miles (74 km) to the northwest of Malatya, 87 miles (140 km) south of Sivas, 110 miles (180 km) east of Kayseri. Located in Darende, Doğu Anadolu Bölgesi, Turkey.
Data Darbar, Shrine of Ali al-Hujwiri, Lahore, Pakistan
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Data Darbar, Shrine of Ali al-Hujwiri, Lahore, Pakistan is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 31.57887, 74.30439. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Ali al-Hujwiri. Located in لاہور, پنجاب, پاکستان.
De Zwerte Lieve Vrouwe
Brussels, Brussels-Capital, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Saved Brussels from attackers (1580), intercepted cannonballs, miracle-working
Difunta Correa shrine, San Juan
Vallecito, San Juan, Argentina
Difunta Correa shrine, San Juan is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: -31.73873, -67.98544. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Associated figure: Difunta Correa. Located in San Juan, Argentina.
Diocesan Shrine of the Captive Lord of Ayabaca
Distrito de Ayabaca, Piura, Peru
Ayabaca, Templo del Senor Cautivo is a religious of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: -4.63992, -79.71558. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Senor Cautivo. Located in Distrito de Ayabaca, Piura, Peru.
Drogheda
County Louth, The Borough District of Drogheda, Ireland
Drogheda is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 53.71533, -6.35246. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: St. Oliver Plunkett. Drogheda ( DRO-həd-ə, DRAW-də; Irish: Droichead Átha [ˈd̪ˠɾˠɛhəd̪ˠ ˈaːhə], meaning bridge at the ford ) is an industrial and port town in County Louth on the east coast of Ireland, 43 km (27 mi) north of Dublin. It is located on the Dublin–Belfast corridor on the east coast of Ireland, mostly in County Louth but with the south fringes of the town in County Meath, 40 km (25 mi) north of Dublin city centre. Drogheda had a population of 44,135 inhabitants in 2022, making it the eleventh largest settlement by population in all of Ireland, and the largest town in Ireland, by both population and area. It is the second largest in County Louth with 35,990 and sixth largest in County Meath with 8,145. It is the last bridging point on the River Boyne before it enters the Irish Sea. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange is located 8 km (5.0 mi) west of the town. Located in The Borough District of Drogheda, Éire / Ireland.
Fushimi Inari-taisha
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Since 711 CE, pilgrims have climbed sacred Mount Inari through tunnels of vermilion torii gates—each one donated by someone whose prayers were answered, or who hoped they would be. As the head shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, Fushimi Inari-taisha stands at the center of worship for prosperity, abundant harvests, and worldly success. Fox messengers guard the paths. The mountain trail winds past countless smaller shrines where incense smoke rises and bells ring softly, ascending toward the summit where the deity dwells.
Futarasan Shrine (Nikkō Futarasan Jinja)
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Futarasan Shrine connects three sacred spaces in a vertical axis of worship: the main shrine at the base of Mount Nantai, the Chuguji by Lake Chuzenji, and the summit Okumiya. Founded by Shodo Shonin in 782 CE, it represents one of Japan's purest expressions of mountain worship, where the land itself is understood as divine. UNESCO recognizes it as part of a sacred landscape of outstanding universal value.
Futarasan Shrine (Nikkō Futarasan Jinja)
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Futarasan Shrine connects three sacred spaces in a vertical axis of worship: the main shrine at the base of Mount Nantai, the Chuguji by Lake Chuzenji, and the summit Okumiya. Founded by Shodo Shonin in 782 CE, it represents one of Japan's purest expressions of mountain worship, where the land itself is understood as divine. UNESCO recognizes it as part of a sacred landscape of outstanding universal value.
Futarasan Shrine (Nikkō Futarasan Jinja)
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Futarasan Shrine connects three sacred spaces in a vertical axis of worship: the main shrine at the base of Mount Nantai, the Chuguji by Lake Chuzenji, and the summit Okumiya. Founded by Shodo Shonin in 782 CE, it represents one of Japan's purest expressions of mountain worship, where the land itself is understood as divine. UNESCO recognizes it as part of a sacred landscape of outstanding universal value.
Futarasan Shrine (Nikkō Futarasan Jinja)
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Futarasan Shrine connects three sacred spaces in a vertical axis of worship: the main shrine at the base of Mount Nantai, the Chuguji by Lake Chuzenji, and the summit Okumiya. Founded by Shodo Shonin in 782 CE, it represents one of Japan's purest expressions of mountain worship, where the land itself is understood as divine. UNESCO recognizes it as part of a sacred landscape of outstanding universal value.
Futarasan Shrine (Nikkō Futarasan Jinja)
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Futarasan Shrine connects three sacred spaces in a vertical axis of worship: the main shrine at the base of Mount Nantai, the Chuguji by Lake Chuzenji, and the summit Okumiya. Founded by Shodo Shonin in 782 CE, it represents one of Japan's purest expressions of mountain worship, where the land itself is understood as divine. UNESCO recognizes it as part of a sacred landscape of outstanding universal value.
Gozli Ata
Turkmenbashy District, Balkan Region, Turkmenistan
Gozli Ata is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 40.33453, 54.48781. Attributes: built, cultural. Associated figure: Gozli Ata. Gozli Ata is one of the remotest shrines of Turkmenistan, devoted to the eponymous saint. Located in Balkan welaýaty, Türkmenistan.
Hiro Shrine
Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
At the base of Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall, Hirou Shrine offers something rare: direct worship of natural phenomenon. Here there is no temple building to pray before, only the 133-meter cascade itself serving as the divine body of the kami. This is nature worship in its purest form.
Hiyoshi Taisha
Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
At the foot of sacred Mount Hiei, Hiyoshi Taisha has served as spiritual guardian for over two thousand years. The shrine protects against evil from the northeast—the demon gate direction in East Asian cosmology—and leads a network of 3,800 affiliated shrines across Japan. Monkeys, considered divine messengers since ancient times, appear throughout the complex as protectors. In April, the Sanno Festival reenacts divine marriage and birth with mikoshi processions that have continued for nearly a millennium.
Hood Prophet Shrine, Qabr Hud, Hadhramaut, Yemen
Hadramaut Governorate, Yemen
Hood Prophet Shrine, Qabr Hud, Hadhramaut, Yemen is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 16.10169, 49.56842. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Islamic. Associated figure: Prophet Hud. Located in محافظة حضرموت, اليمن.
Huaca Pachatosa
Cusco, Cusco, Peru
Huaca Pachatosa in Cusco, Cusco, Peru.
Huaca Sapantiana
Cusco, Cusco, Peru
Huaca Sapantiana in Cusco, Cusco, Peru.
Ise
Ise, Mie Prefecture, Japan
Ise is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 34.45501, 136.72579. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Shinto. Ise may refer to: Located in 伊勢市, Japan.
Izanagi Shinto Shrine, Awaji Island
Awaji, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Izanagi Shinto Shrine, Awaji Island is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 34.46005, 134.85250. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Shinto. Associated figure: Izanagi. Mythological context: Japanese mythology. Located in 淡路市, Japan.
Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine)
Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan
Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine) in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
Kashan
Kashan, Isfahan Province, Iran
Kashan is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 33.97478, 51.43977. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Islamic. Associated figure: Sultan Amir Ahmad Kashan. Kashan (Persian: کاشان; [kɒːˈʃɒːn] ) is a city in the Central District of Kashan County, in the northern part of Isfahan province, Iran, serving as capital of both the county and the district. Located in شهر کاشان, استان اصفهان, ایران.
Kashima Shrine
Kashima, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
For over two millennia, Kashima Shrine has enshrined Takemikazuchi, the god of thunder and martial power born from the blood of Izanagi's sword. Legendary swordsmen trained here before battle, and today martial arts dojos across Japan display the deity's name. The shrine's deer, ancestors of Nara's famous sacred deer, wander the grounds as divine messengers. Deep in the shrine forest, a stone called Kaname-ishi is said to pin down the cosmic catfish whose thrashing causes earthquakes—Japan's spiritual protection against seismic disaster.
Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine
Kahnawake, Quebec, Canada
Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 45.41315, -73.68084. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Kateri Tekakwitha. Located in Québec, Canada.
Katori Shrine
Katori, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
Katori Shrine enshrines Futsunushi, the deity of swords and victory who pacified Japan for the heavenly lineage. Here, in the 15th century, a warrior named Iizasa Chōisai Ienao received divine transmission of martial secrets after a thousand days of practice—founding Katori Shinto-ryu, one of Japan's oldest martial arts. Today, practitioners must still sign a blood oath to the shrine deities before training. Alongside Kashima and Ise, Katori held the prestigious Jingū designation, marking it as one of Japan's three most sacred shrines.
Kharqa Sharif, Kandahar
Kandahar, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan
Kharqa Sharif, Kandahar is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 31.61943, 65.70809. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Islamic. Located in کندهار, کندهار ولايت, افغانستان.
Kibitsu Jinja Shinto Shrine, Okayama
Okayama, Okayama Prefecture, Japan
Kibitsu Jinja Shinto Shrine, Okayama is a shinto shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 34.67073, 133.85060. Attributes: built, cultural, ceremonial. Tradition: Shinto. Located in 岡山市, Japan.
Kifune Shrine
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
Knock
County Mayo, Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, Ireland
Knock is a pilgrimage shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 53.79212, -8.91715. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Catholic. Associated figure: Virgin Mary. Knock may refer to: Located in Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, Éire / Ireland.
Konya
Karatay, Konya, Turkey
Konya is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 37.87076, 32.50501. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Rumi. Konya is a major city in central Turkey, on the southwestern edge of the Central Anatolian Plateau, and is the capital of Konya Province. During antiquity and into Seljuk times it was known as Iconium. In 19th-century accounts of the city in English its name is usually spelt Konia or Koniah. In the late medieval period, Konya was the capital of the Seljuk Turks Sultanate of Rum, from where the sultans ruled over Anatolia. As of 2024, the population of the Metropolitan Province was 2 330 024 of whom 1 433 861 live in the three urban districts (Karatay, Selcuklu, Meram), making it the sixth most populous city in Turkey, and second most populous of the Central Anatolia Region, after Ankara. City has Konya is served by TCDD high-speed train (YHT) services from Istanbul, Ankara and Karaman. The local airport (Konya Havalimanı, KYA) is served by frequent flights from Istanbul whereas flights to and from İzmir are offered few times a week. Located in Karatay, İç Anadolu Bölgesi, Turkey.
Kotohira shrine, Kotohira, Japan
Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan
Kotohira shrine, Kotohira, Japan is a shinto shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 34.18400, 133.80954. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Shinto. Associated figure: Konpira. Mythological context: Shinto. Located in 琴平町, 仲多度郡, Japan.
Kumano Hayatama Taisha
Shingū, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Kumano Hayatama Taisha is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 33.73180, 135.98364. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Shinto. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kumano Hayatama Taisha (熊野速玉大社) is a Shinto shrine located in Shingu, Wakayama Prefecture, on the shores of the Kumanogawa in the Kii Peninsula of Japan. It is included as part of the Kumano Sanzan in the UNESCO World Heritage site Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range . The three Kumano Sanzan shrines are the Sōhonsha ( head shrines ) of all Kumano shrines, lie at between 20 and 40 km of distance one from the other and are connected by the pilgrimage route known as Kumano Sankeimichi (熊野参詣道). Located in 新宮市, Japan.
Kumano Hongū Taisha
Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Kumano Hongū Taisha is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 33.84064, 135.77364. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Shinto. Associated figure: Kumano Gongen. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kumano Hongū Taisha (熊野本宮大社) is a Shinto shrine located in the jurisdiction of Tanabe, Wakayama, deep in the rugged mountains of the southeast Kii Peninsula of Japan. It is included as part of the Kumano Sanzan in the World Heritage Site Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range . The main deity enshrined is Kumano Gongen (熊野権現). All of the ancient Kumano Kodō routes lead to the Grand Shrine. It was originally located at present Ōyunohara (大斎原), on a sandbank at the confluence of the Kumano River and Otonashi River. In 1889, it was partially destroyed in a flood and the remaining shrine buildings were relocated at its present site in 1891. Of the original five main pavilions only three were rebuilt. Four deities were moved there and the other eight are still enshrined there in two stone monuments. In 2000, the largest torii shrine gate in the world (33.9 meters tall and 42 meters wide) was erected at the entrance to the Oyunohara sandbank. It is an official gateway that designates the entrance to a sacred area. It signifies the division of the secular and the spiritual worlds. This torii is called Otorii (o means great ) and is made of steel weighing 172 tons, which took about six months to make and another six months to assemble. Located in 田辺市, Japan.
Kumano-Nachi Grand Shrine
Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
One of the three great Kumano shrines, Kumano Nachi Taisha rises on Mt. Nachi above Japan's tallest waterfall. Here nature worship became formalized Shinto, drawing emperors from Kyoto who walked for weeks through mountain passes to seek blessings from the kami of these sacred heights.
La Vierge Noire d'Outremeuse
Liège, Liège, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Healing miracles, protection of the district, venerated for centuries
La’ Vang Marian shrine
Quảng Sơn, Khánh Hòa Province, Vietnam
La’ Vang Marian shrine is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 11.75415, 108.79321. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Catholic. Located in Tỉnh Khánh Hòa, Vietnam.
Ladyewell Marian Shrine, Fernyhalgh, England
Preston, England, United Kingdom
Ladyewell Marian Shrine, Fernyhalgh, England is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 53.79700, -2.67536. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Virgin Mary. Located in Preston, England, United Kingdom.
Litmanová, Hora Zvir, Shrine of Our Lady of Litmanová
Litmanová, Region of Prešov, Slovakia
Litmanová, Hora Zvir, Shrine of Our Lady of Litmanová is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 49.39207, 20.63342. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Our Lady of Litmanová. Located in Litmanová, Prešovský kraj, Slovensko.
Madonna dei Miracoli
Saronno, Lombardy, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Weeping Madonna, healing of plague victims, miraculous cures
Madonna dei Miracoli
Chianni, Tuscany, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Weeping blood miracle (1494), healing sick, protection of city
Madonna di Loreto
Loreto, Ancona, Italia
Madonna di Loreto in Loreto, Ancona, Italia.
Madonna di Montevergine (Mamma Schiavona)
Mercogliano, Campania, Italy
Madonna di Montevergine (Mamma Schiavona) in Mercogliano, Campania, Italy.
Madonna in the Garland
Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Black Madonna shrine known for Medieval pilgrimage site, healing miracles, protection of city
Madonna of Bonaria
Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Washed ashore in storm, patroness of sailors, healing miracles
Madonna of Crea
Castellazzo, Piedmont, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Brought by St. Eusebius from Holy Land, UNESCO Sacro Monte, healing miracles
Madonna of Montenero
Portoferraio, Tuscany, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous interventions, escape from captivity, healing miracles, numerous ex-votos
Madonna of Tindari (Madonna Nera)
Patti, Sicily, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous healing powers, lagoon creation miracle, protection and blessings, pilgrimage site
Madonna of Trapani
Trapani, Sicily, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Medieval pilgrimage site, seafarer protection, healing
Mahan
Mahan, Kerman Province, Iran
Mahan is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 30.06001, 57.29043. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Islamic. Associated figure: Shah Nur-ed-Din Nematollah Vali. Mahan or Mahaan may refer to: Located in شهر ماهان, استان کرمان, ایران.
Makhdoom Wali Azam Sufi Shrine, Maner, Bihar
Maner, Bihar, India
Makhdoom Wali Azam Sufi Shrine, Maner, Bihar is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 25.64540, 84.87429. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Sufism. Associated figure: Makhdoom Sharfuddin Ahmed Yahya Maneri. Located in Bihar, India.
Mamma Schiavona
Mercogliano, Campania, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for LGBTQ+ pilgrimage tradition, saved gay couple from death (1256 legend), miracle-working
Maqam Sahib Alzaman (12th Imam), Karbala
Karbala, Karbala, Iraq
Maqam Sahib Alzaman (12th Imam), Karbala is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 32.62215, 44.03533. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Shia Islam. Associated figure: Muhammad al-Mahdi. Located in كربلاء, محافظة كربلاء, العراق.
Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics
Maria Stein, Ohio, United States
In rural western Ohio, surrounded by farmland and the steeples of over thirty cross-tipped churches, the Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics holds one of the largest collections of authenticated sacred relics in the United States. More than 1,200 relics rest here, ninety-five percent authenticated by the Vatican as first-class, including five fragments of the True Cross and the wax-coated body of St. Victoria. An inscription above the Relic Chapel door reads: 'Enter devoutly, O Pilgrim, for no place is holier than this on the New Continent.'
Marija Bistrica
Općina Marija Bistrica, Krapinsko-zagorska županija, Croatia
Marija Bistrica is a marian shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 46.00447, 16.11939. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Our Lady of Bistrica. Marija Bistrica (Croatian pronunciation: [mǎrija bîstrit͡sa]) is a village and municipality in the Krapina-Zagorje County in central Croatia, located on the slopes of the Medvednica mountain in the Hrvatsko Zagorje region north of the capital Zagreb. The municipality has 5,976 inhabitants, with 1,071 residents in the settlement itself (2011 census). Marija Bistrica has an old Marian shrine of the Black Madonna which is a place of pilgrimage and visited by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year. On 3 October 1998, Pope John Paul II visited Marija Bistrica and beatified Croatian Cardinal Aloysius Stepinac in front of a crowd of 500,000 Croatians. Located in Općina Marija Bistrica, Krapinsko-zagorska županija, Croatia.
Martyrs' Shrine
Tay, Ontario, Canada
Martyrs' Shrine is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 44.73733, -79.84103. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Located in Tay, Ontario, Canada.
Masjid Dastgeer Sahib, Kashmir
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Dastgeer Sahib, Kashmir is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: 34.09327, 74.81725. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage. Tradition: Islamic. Associated figure: Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jilani. Located in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Meiji Shrine
Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
Rising from the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Shrine offers one of the world's most dramatic sacred thresholds. Step through the massive torii gate and the city dissolves—replaced by a forest planted over a century ago by 110,000 volunteers. At its center, a shrine honors the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the imperial couple who shepherded Japan from isolation into modernity.
Mitsumine Jingu (Mitsumine Grand Shrine)
Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, Japan
High in the Chichibu mountains, Mitsumine Shrine guards nearly two thousand years of worship at a place where wolves once guided a lost prince to safety. At 1,100 meters elevation, the shrine honors both Japan's creator deities and the now-extinct wolves revered as divine messengers. Stone wolf guardians stand where other shrines place lion-dogs, and pilgrims still seek the protection that Edo-period devotees traveled days to receive.
Mother of God of Kazan
Kazan, Tatarstan, Russia
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous recovery after fire (1579), protection in battles, inspired army at Borodino, numerous healing miracles
Nikkō Tōshō-gū
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Nikko Toshogu is the mausoleum and shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the warlord who unified Japan and founded a dynasty that ruled for 300 years of peace. After his death in 1616, Ieyasu was deified as a kami and enshrined in this complex of overwhelming beauty, built by 127,000 craftsmen with over 5,000 carvings. UNESCO recognizes it as 'an outstanding example of architectural and artistic genius.'
Nikkō Tōshō-gū
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Nikko Toshogu is the mausoleum and shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the warlord who unified Japan and founded a dynasty that ruled for 300 years of peace. After his death in 1616, Ieyasu was deified as a kami and enshrined in this complex of overwhelming beauty, built by 127,000 craftsmen with over 5,000 carvings. UNESCO recognizes it as 'an outstanding example of architectural and artistic genius.'
Nikkō Tōshō-gū
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Nikko Toshogu is the mausoleum and shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the warlord who unified Japan and founded a dynasty that ruled for 300 years of peace. After his death in 1616, Ieyasu was deified as a kami and enshrined in this complex of overwhelming beauty, built by 127,000 craftsmen with over 5,000 carvings. UNESCO recognizes it as 'an outstanding example of architectural and artistic genius.'
Nikkō Tōshō-gū
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Nikko Toshogu is the mausoleum and shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the warlord who unified Japan and founded a dynasty that ruled for 300 years of peace. After his death in 1616, Ieyasu was deified as a kami and enshrined in this complex of overwhelming beauty, built by 127,000 craftsmen with over 5,000 carvings. UNESCO recognizes it as 'an outstanding example of architectural and artistic genius.'
Nikkō Tōshō-gū
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Nikko Toshogu is the mausoleum and shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the warlord who unified Japan and founded a dynasty that ruled for 300 years of peace. After his death in 1616, Ieyasu was deified as a kami and enshrined in this complex of overwhelming beauty, built by 127,000 craftsmen with over 5,000 carvings. UNESCO recognizes it as 'an outstanding example of architectural and artistic genius.'
Nossa Senhora Aparecida
Aparecida, São Paulo, Brazil
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous catch of fish (1717), breaking chains of enslaved people, healing miracles, national patroness of Brazil
Notre-Dame de Bon-Espoir
Dijon, Bourgogne – Franche-Comté, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Liberation of Dijon from siege (1513), miraculous owl legend, healing
Notre-Dame de Confession (Our Lady of Confession)
Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Green candles tradition, Candlemas celebration, protection of sailors
Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Saved Lyon from plague (1643), protection from cholera (1832) and Prussian invasion (1870), festival of lights tradition
Notre-Dame de la Sarte
Huy, Liège, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Miracle of immovability (1621), drought-ending miracle (1656), seven-year procession tradition
Notre-Dame de Sous-Terre (Our Lady Under the Earth)
Chartres, Centre-Val de Loire, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Ancient healing shrine, pilgrimage site since pre-Christian times, fertility and abundance, spiritual transformation
Our Lady (Virgin) of Montserrat (La Moreneta)
Marganell, Catalonia, Spain
Black Madonna shrine known for Healing powers, fertility blessings, thousands of miraculous cures, touching her hand grants relief from pain and suffering
Our Lady of Altötting
Altötting, Bavaria, Germany
Black Madonna shrine known for Called "Lourdes of Germany", miraculous recovery of drowning victim (1489), resurrection of crushed child, 1 million annual pilgrims
Our Lady of Atocha
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Black Madonna shrine known for Survived Muslim occupation, restoration of murdered family to life, protection of royal house, patroness of Spain
Our Lady of Chipiona
Chipiona, Andalusia, Spain
Black Madonna shrine known for Original Spanish Regla, patroness of seamen, miraculous storm protection
Our Lady of Częstochowa
Częstochowa, Silesian Voivodeship, Poland
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous healings, defense of Poland from Swedish invasion (1655), protection of Polish nation, healing of sick and crippled, resurrection miracles
Our Lady of Czestochowa (Camden Town)
London, England, United Kingdom
Black Madonna shrine known for Belgian connection, historic devotion from Halle, England
Our Lady of Einsiedeln
Einsiedeln, Canton Schwyz, Switzerland
Our Lady of Einsiedeln in Einsiedeln, Canton Schwyz, Switzerland.
Our Lady of Flanders
Tournai, Hainaut, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Protection during plague and wars, miracle-working statue
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Guadalupe, Extremadura, Spain
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous apparitions (1326), healing miracles, national patroness, major pilgrimage site
Our Lady of Guadalupe (La Morenita)
Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous apparitions to Juan Diego (1531), tilma image, healing miracles, patroness of Mexico and the Americas
Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico
Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico in Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico.
Our Lady of Handel
Handel, North Brabant, Netherlands
Black Madonna shrine known for Black Madonna leitmotifs, Dutch pilgrimage tradition
Our Lady of Le Puy
Le Puy-en-Velay, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Healing of Villa (3rd-4th century), miracle-working site, fertility stone, starting point for Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage
Our Lady of Loreto
Pesaro, Marche, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Associated with miracles, patron saint of aviation, Holy House believed to be Mary's home from Nazareth, healing powers
Our Lady of Loretto
Głogówek, Opole Voivodeship, Poland
Black Madonna shrine known for Copy of Loreto Black Madonna, regional pilgrimage site, healing miracles
Our Lady of Luján
Luján, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Our Lady of Luján in Luján, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina.
Our Lady of Nazaré
Nazaré, Leiria District, Portugal
Black Madonna shrine known for Saved knight from falling off cliff (legend), protection of fishermen and sailors, healing miracles
Our Lady of Rocamadour
Rocamadour, Lot, France
Black Madonna shrine known for 126 documented miracles, healing sick and crippled, curing infertility, rescuing sailors, miraculous bell rings during sea rescues (1385-1617)
Our Lady of Scherpenheuvel
Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, Flemish Brabant, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous oak tree shrine, healing miracles, major Belgian pilgrimage site
Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn
Vilnius, Vilnius County, Lithuania
Black Madonna shrine known for Miraculous healing of 2-year-old (1630s), protection of city, major Catholic and Orthodox pilgrimage site
Our Lady of the Grotto
Rabat, Northern Region, Malta
Black Madonna shrine known for Apparition in cave (1400), miraculous healing, Maltese national devotion
Our Lady of the Oak
Veldhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands
Black Madonna shrine known for Found in oak tree (1263), miracle-working, tree kept in church
Our Lady of Vladimir
Zhukovsky, Moscow Oblast, Russia
Black Madonna shrine known for 12th century icon, protection of Russia, miracle-working
Our Lady of Walcourt
Walcourt, Namur, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Saved from fire by flying to tree (1220), miraculous properties, one of oldest Marian statues in Western Christianity (957-1020)
Our Lady the Black Virgin of Hal
Diegem, Flemish Brabant, Belgium
Black Madonna shrine known for Saved city from siege (1580) by catching cannonballs, raising from dead, healing sick, major pilgrimage site
Pir Khidir Zinda
Siyazan, Siyazan Rayon (District), Azerbaijan
Pir Khidir Zinda in Siyazan, Siyazan Rayon (District), Azerbaijan.
Santa Casa di Loreto
Loreto, Ancona, Italia
Santa Casa di Loreto in Loreto, Ancona, Italia.
Santuario di Vicoforte
Vicoforte, Piedmont, Italy
Black Madonna shrine known for Survived gunshot miracle, healing shrine, largest elliptical dome in world
Sumiyoshi-taisha
Osaka, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
When Izanagi purified himself in the sea after his journey to the underworld, three deities emerged from the waters—the Sumiyoshi Sanjin, gods of the sea who have protected sailors and fishermen for two millennia. Sumiyoshi-taisha, their head shrine, leads approximately 2,300 affiliated shrines nationwide. The steep-arched Taiko Bridge marks the passage from mundane to sacred realm. The shrine's architectural style—Sumiyoshi-zukuri—predates Buddhist influence, preserving indigenous Japanese sacred building traditions from before continental contact.
Suwa-taisha
Suwa, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Suwa-taisha predates shrine architecture itself. Four shrines encircle Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture, but their sacred objects are not artifacts—they are Mount Moriya and ancient yew and cedar trees. This represents Shinto at its most primal: direct encounter with kami dwelling in landscape. Every six years, the Onbashira Festival renews this connection as communities drag massive sacred pillars from the mountains, a tradition documented for over 1,200 years. Head shrine of more than 10,000 affiliated Suwa shrines across Japan.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Laghet
La Trinité, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
Black Madonna shrine known for Healing shrine, fertility blessings, located on ley-lines with healing energy
Theotokos of St. Theodore
Kostroma, Kostroma Oblast, Russia
Black Madonna shrine known for Fedorovskaya Icon, patroness of brides, healing
Togakushi Shrine
Nagano, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Mount Togakushi is literally the 'Hidden Door'—the cave entrance that the god Tajikarao threw across the heavens after pulling the sun goddess Amaterasu from her hiding place. Five shrines scatter across this sacred mountain, each enshrining a deity who helped restore light to the world. The pilgrimage to Okusha, the most remote shrine, passes through an avenue of 400-year-old cedars that create a natural cathedral. Ninja once trained in these forested slopes. Today, the mountain draws pilgrims seeking the power of the gods who overcame cosmic darkness.
Usa Jingu
Usa, Oita Prefecture, Japan
In 749 CE, when Emperor Shōmu consecrated the Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji, a deity traveled from Kyushu to Nara for the ceremony—the first time a Shinto god participated in Buddhist ritual. That deity was Hachiman, and his journey from Usa Jingū in the first-ever mikoshi procession established the template for over a thousand years of Shinto-Buddhist synthesis. Today, Usa Jingū leads over 40,000 affiliated Hachiman shrines, the largest shrine network dedicated to a single deity in Japan.
Virgen of Chaguaya
Chaguaya, Tarija Department, Bolivia
Chaguaya, Virgen of Chaguaya is a shrine of sacred significance. Approximate coordinates: -15.80000, -69.01667. Attributes: built, cultural, pilgrimage, ceremonial. Tradition: Christianity. Associated figure: Virgen of Chaguaya. Located in Municipio Puerto Carabuco, La Paz, Bolivia.