🇮🇹 Sicily's "Alien Cathedral"｜Sanctuary of Madonna delle Lacrime

Located in Syracuse, Sicily, this awe-inspiring sanctuary was built to commemorate the 1953 miracle when a Madonna statue wept human tears 58 times in four days. Scientific tests confirmed the tears matched human composition, sparking global devotion. Key Facts ⏳ Construction: Designed by French architects Andrault & Parat Engineered by Riccardo Morandi (1966-1994) Consecrated in 1994 by Pope John Paul II 🏆 Status: 2002: Declared a Papal Basilica 2019: Sicily’s only Marian Sanctuary Architectural Marvels 👽✨ 103m tall conical spire crowned with a golden Madonna Capacity: 11,000 standing / 6,000 seated 22 chapels + underground crypt with ancient Roman tombs Historic Moments Hosted St. Lucia’s relics (2014 & 2024) Site of bishop ordinations A modernist pilgrimage landmark #ArtHistory #FuturisticArchitecture #SacredSites