Iowa is loaded with beautiful historic buildings, including churches. One of the most beautiful churches is located in Dyersville, Iowa, and it’s absolutely stunning. The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is absolutely incredible, and it’s definitely worth a visit.

The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier is a parish church in the Archdiocese of Dubuque, and it was named in honor of the missionary Saint Francis Xavier.
Flickr/Mike Willis
Although it has been around for over 125 years, the church was elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica in 1956 by special proclamation of His Holiness Pope Pius XII.
Flickr/Michel Ngilen
The term "basilica" is an architectural term that describes a church built with specific architectural attributes. This basilica features Ruskinian Gothic Revival architecture.
One of the most striking features of the church is its towering twin spires at the front of the building. The height of each is a dizzying 212 feet.
Yelp/Scott L.
The gold leafed crosses at the top of each spire are 6 feet 8 inches wide and 14 feet high.
The church also features 64 burnt colored cathedral windows, multiple columns and vaulted ceilings.
Flickr/Allie

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Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
There are numerous paintings and frescoes that are just breathtaking.
Wikipedia/Nheyob
Much of the artwork was done by Milwaukee artists Alphonse Brielmaier and his sister Lottie from 1904 to 1905.
Above the high altar is a painting of the heavenly liturgy, the Adoration of the Mystical Lamb of God.
Flickr/Allie
The basilica is open daily from 7am to 8pm, from the side doors.
Yelp/Kim W.
Brochures are available for guests to guide them through a walking tour. There are also items available for purchase from the basilica such as gifts and souvenirs, like postcards, cookbooks, Christmas ornaments and more. To purchase items, call them or visit their office.

Their phone number is (563) 875-7325, and they’re located at 104 3rd St. SW, Dyersville, IA.

Have you visited this church? What did you think? For more of Iowa’s amazing architecture, You’ve Never Seen Anything Like These Beautiful, One-Of-A-Kind Banks In Iowa.

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