Knock Shrine

Knock Shrine is a Roman Catholic pilgrimage site in the village of Knock in County Mayo, Ireland, centred on an 1879 reported apparition at the gable of the local parish church. The event and subsequent devotion have made the site a national shrine and a regular destination for pilgrims.

The complex includes the original parish church gable identified with the apparition, a modern basilica that serves large congregations, and smaller chapels and devotional spaces. A visitor and interpretation centre provides historical information and pastoral services to visitors.

The shrine grew after the 1879 event as pilgrims began visiting from Ireland and abroad; facilities have been added over the 20th century to accommodate rising numbers. The site is maintained by the shrine authorities and local church.

Knock sits in inland County Mayo in the west of Ireland, accessible by road from major western towns and cities and served by regular pilgrim transport from larger urban centres.

• Apparition date: The apparition at the parish church was reported on 21 August 1879 and is the origin of the site's significance for pilgrims.
• Pilgrimage timings: Major pilgrimages and organised visits take place throughout the year, with particularly large gatherings on Marian feast days.

What to See #

• Apparition gable: Located at the gable wall of the parish church where the 1879 apparition was reported; the site is marked and visited by pilgrims throughout the year.
• Basilica and pilgrimage complex: A modern basilica and pilgrimage complex that accommodates large gatherings and liturgical events, with facilities for visitors and regular services.
• Visitor and interpretation centre: An interpretation centre and smaller chapels that provide historical information, exhibits, and pastoral support for pilgrims.