The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the largest Catholic church in North America and one of the largest Marian shrines in the world, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under her title as Patroness of the United States. Located adjacent to the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., it was elevated to a minor basilica in 1990. The shrine hosts daily Mass, pilgrimages, and national Catholic events.