Welcome
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower is a must-see destination for pilgrims, tourists, and architecture enthusiasts. Renowned for its stunning design, rich spiritual legacy, and vibrant community, the basilica offers a unique blend of faith, culture, and history in San Antonio.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
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General Visiting Hours
- Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM–7:00 PM
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Admission Free (donations appreciated)
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Tickets No tickets are required for entry or tours.
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Mass Schedule
- Monday–Saturday: 12:00 PM
- Saturday Vigil: 5:30 PM (English)
- Sunday: 8:00 AM (English), 10:00 AM (Spanish), 12:00 PM (English), 5:30 PM (Spanish)
- Confessions: Tuesdays (6:00–7:00 PM), Saturdays (4:00–5:00 PM)
(Little Flower Basilica - Schedule)
Directions and Parking
- Address 1715 N. Zarzamora St., San Antonio, TX 78201
- Parking Limited; use street parking or the public lot across from the basilica. Arrive early during feast days or events (Catholic Travel Guide).
- Public Transit VIA Metropolitan Transit bus routes serve the area. Rideshare services are also available.
- Landmarks The intersection of Culebra and Zarzamora, golden domes visible from I-10.
Guided Tours & Special Events
- Free Guided Tours Led by docents, highlighting history, architecture, and sacred art. Advance reservations recommended (Little Flower Basilica - Tours).
- Self-Guided Visits Explore the sanctuary, St. Elias Chapel, crypt, and Memorial Garden during open hours.
Major Events:
- Feast of St. Thérèse (Oct 1) Masses, novena, and traditional “Transit” ceremony (Little Flower Basilica - Events).
- Centenary Reliquary (Oct 31–Nov 3, 2025) Rare veneration of St. Thérèse’s relics (Little Flower Basilica - Relics 2025).
- First Friday Adoration/Healing Mass, Community Food Drives, Concerts, and Lectures.
Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
- Designated seating for visitors with mobility needs.
Nearby Attractions
Explore other notable San Antonio sites nearby:
- The Alamo
- San Fernando Cathedral
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
- Pearl District
Artistic & Spiritual Treasures
- Stained Glass French and German windows depicting St. Thérèse and Carmelite saints (Basilica Tour).
- Main Sanctuary Marble high altar, statue of St. Thérèse, gilded baldachin, and hand-painted murals.
- Shrine of St. Thérèse Holds sacred relics, including a bone fragment enshrined in a gilded reliquary.
- Side Chapels Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Joseph chapels, each with unique devotional art.
- Bell Tower & Carillon 23-bell French-cast carillon rings daily (Basilica Bells).
- Pipe Organ Historic instrument with over 2,000 pipes, featured in Masses and concerts.
- Bookstore & Gift Shop Catholic books, religious art, devotional items (Bookstore and Gift Shop).
Architectural Design and Symbolism
- Spanish Colonial Revival Stucco walls, red-tile roofing, ornate bell tower.
- Cruciform Layout Symbolizes the Christian cross, built with reinforced concrete, limestone, and terra cotta (National Park Service).
- Stained Glass and Frescoes Depict scenes from St. Thérèse’s life and biblical events.
- Rose Motif Symbolizes St. Thérèse’s “shower of roses” (Carmelite Sisters of the Divine Heart of Jesus).
- Light and Space Orientation maximizes natural light on the altar during morning Mass.
Spiritual Significance
- Minor Basilica Status Elevated by Pope John Paul II in 1998 (Vatican News).
- Relics and Pilgrimage First-class relics of St. Thérèse and her parents draw thousands annually, especially on feast days.
- Liturgical Life Daily Mass, confessions, Eucharistic adoration, and Carmelite spirituality programs.
- Plenary Indulgences Available on select feast days (Detroit Catholic).
Preservation and Community Engagement
- Historic Landmark Listed on the National Register of Historic Places (National Register of Historic Places).
- Restorations Ongoing efforts preserve stained glass, murals, and statuary.
- Education & Outreach Guided tours, lectures, and faith formation programs (Visit San Antonio).
- Volunteer Opportunities Events, food drives, grounds maintenance, and liturgical ministries (Little Flower Basilica - Community).
Practical Visitor Information
- Restrooms Available during open hours.
- Catholic Store On-site for devotional items and Carmelite gifts.
- Safety Staff and security ensure a safe environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Basilica’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, donations are appreciated.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, free guided tours are offered. Advance booking recommended for groups.
Q: Is the Basilica wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Q: Can I view relics?
A: The relic of St. Thérèse is available for public veneration on Tuesdays after the 6:00 PM community Mass.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes, but avoid flash and be respectful during services.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Only service animals are permitted.
Contact and Further Information
- Phone (210) 735-9126
- Email [email protected]
- Official Website
Discover More
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower is a beacon of architectural beauty, spiritual depth, and community life in San Antonio. Its status as a National Shrine and Minor Basilica, coupled with its rich Carmelite heritage and accessible programming, makes it a rewarding destination for all visitors. For the latest updates on hours, events, and tours—including the 2025 Centenary Reliquary exhibit—visit the official basilica website. Download the Audiala app for real-time updates and exclusive content, and make the most of your San Antonio visit by exploring related historical sites and cultural landmarks.
