Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Conewago Facts for Kids

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Conewago Chapel
U.S. National Register of Historic Places


Location in Pennsylvania Show map of Pennsylvania Location in the United States Show map of the United States
Location	3 miles (4.8 km) northwest of Hanover, Conewago Township, Pennsylvania
Area	1 acre (0.40 ha)
Built	1787
Architectural style	Federal
NRHP reference No.	75001604
Added to NRHP	January 29, 1975

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, also known as Conewago Chapel, is a special Roman Catholic church. It is located in Conewago Township, Pennsylvania. This church is called a "minor basilica" because it is a very important church. It is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg.

About Conewago Chapel
- Church Design and Features
- Historical Importance
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About Conewago Chapel

The Conewago Chapel was built a long time ago, between 1785 and 1787. It is made from brownstone, which is a type of reddish-brown sandstone. The walls are very thick, about three feet!

Church Design and Features

The building is about two and a half stories tall. It has a classic Federal style entrance. This means it has a simple, elegant look with a semi-circular arched doorway. In 1873, an 80-foot-high spire was added to the top. A rectory, which is a house for the priests, is attached to the chapel. It was also built in 1787.

Historical Importance

Conewago Chapel is very special because it is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the United States built from stone. A famous priest named Prince Gallitzin served here. He spent the first five years of his priesthood at Conewago Chapel, from 1795 to 1799.

In 1962, the church was given the special title of "minor basilica." This means it has a unique historical or spiritual importance. Later, in 1975, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes important historical sites across the country.