Built originally as a chapel in 1818 by Abbc’ Dubois, St Mary’s Basilica was transformed into an imposing Gothic style church in 1874. A vaulted ceiling supported by Corinthian pillars and stately arches, coupled with the stained – glass windows from France, distinguish the interiors. Said to possess miraculous powers, Our Lady of Health, as St Mary is also known, draws thousands of devotees during the Feast in September. The Pope in 1974, elevated the church to the status of a Basilica.