Basilica Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime

Beautiful sanctuary close to Corso Gelone: the bus stop is 5 minutes walk.There are several entrances to the top church: from any entrance you see the main altar in white marble having the Mother Mary who shed tears below Christ crucified.the dome is spectacular and all around there are several chapels: Saying Lucie, Padre Pio, Saint John Paul, etc. On One side you will find find a chapel where to see a movie telling the story of Our Lady of tears and another chapel photographic copy of the Holy Shroud.The main chapel is on the left of the white altar: there you can attend daily masses.In front of the altar there is admin office where you can buy several items.Clise to it confessionals: I advice to call that priests are available and if in the morning or afternoon or both.the church below is the Cripta...where the crystallized tears of Mother Mary are saved: it is not always open.In the ground floor also the museum.

The Basilica Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime is one of Syracuse’s most striking and modern landmarks—an architectural giant that immediately captures attention with its bold, conical shape rising high above the city skyline. While Syracuse is celebrated for its ancient Greek and Baroque treasures, this sanctuary offers a completely different experience: spiritual, contemporary, and visually unforgettable. Built to commemorate the miraculous weeping of a small plaster image of the Madonna in 1953, the basilica stands as both a place of devotion and a powerful symbol of faith. Approaching the sanctuary, visitors are struck by its soaring vertical lines and unmistakable silhouette. The structure resembles a great concrete spire or a symbolic tear, pointing toward the sky—an intentional and touching reference to the miracle it honors. Inside, the basilica feels vast yet serene. Natural light filters in from above, giving the space an airy, almost celestial atmosphere. The interior is simple rather than ornate, but its scale creates a sense of awe. The shrine containing the miraculous image is displayed with reverence, and many visitors find the site emotionally moving, regardless of religious background. The lower level houses a museum that provides historical context about the miracle, displaying documents, photographs, and testimonies from the time. It adds depth to the visit and helps explain why the basilica holds such significance for the local community. Overall, the Basilica Santuario Madonna delle Lacrime is a fascinating blend of modern engineering, spiritual symbolism, and local devotion. Even for non-religious travelers, it stands as a compelling and memorable stop in Syracuse—architecturally impressive and emotionally resonant.

Stunning Basilica in the heart of Modern Syracuse built in the 50s in quite a Soviet brutalism style. Really worth seeing quite beautiful in it's own way.

For fans of great architecture - especially brutalist - this is one to witness in person. I was especially taken aback of the experience of going inside. A very moving day.

Very interesting architecture, especially for a basilica. Looks much bigger and more monumental in person than on the pictures

A combination of unique atmosphere and architecture. It's worth seeing.

Original and brutal church made of concrete. It is very impressive if nothing else, feels a bit scary inside under such a monstrous construction. And on the main altar is obviously the miraculous image of Virgin Mary which is the other reason one should visit.

One of the most incredible basilica's I have seen to date (and that includes Rome)! It is a newer style basilica and an architectural beauty if you love buildings and designs. The church is roughly 100m tall and can sit up to 6,000 people. There are multiple altars to pray to different Saints and the sound echos all around the interior. It is also a beautiful building from the outside and one to add to the list of places to visit while in Siracusa.