Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona

The Basilica of the Assumption in Aglona is the principal Roman Catholic shrine in eastern Latvia and a major national Marian pilgrimage site. The church is the focal point for large religious gatherings in the Latgale region.

The basilica complex and its open forecourt accommodate mass gatherings and religious ceremonies; the site is visited year-round by pilgrims and tourists, with the largest attendance around the feast of the Assumption. Visitors encounter a sizable church building and the surrounding pilgrimage infrastructure.

The present church building dates to the late 18th century and the location has been a centre of Catholic devotion in the region since that period. It has developed as a national pilgrimage destination over subsequent centuries.

The basilica sits in the village of Aglona in Preiļi Municipality in eastern Latvia’s Latgale region.

• Pilgrimage day: The main liturgical feast is the Assumption on 15 August, when the site draws large numbers of pilgrims from around Latvia and neighbouring regions.

• If you prefer a quiet visit, avoid around 15 August (the Feast of the Assumption), when Aglona becomes a major pilgrimage destination and the basilica is extremely busy.
• Plan to arrive early in the morning on non‑pilgrimage days to explore the basilica interior and the surrounding parkland before tour buses and groups arrive.