Aglona
| Aglona | |
| Type: | Village |
| Country: | Latvia |
| Subdivision: | Latgale |
| Founded: | |
| Total Population: | 685 |
| Catholic Population: | — |
| Catholic %: | — |
| Parishes: | — |
| Patron Saint: | Our Lady of Aglona (miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary; patroness associated with the shrine) |
| Catholicism Introduced: | |
| Church Status: | Active |
| Historic: | Yes |
| Official Languages: | |
| Notable Catholic Sites: | Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona |
| Catholicism Status: | — |
| Website: | Official Website |
Aglona is a village in Preiļi Municipality, in the Latgale region of eastern Latvia. As of 2025 estimates, the village has a population of approximately 685 inhabitants. It is one of the most important Roman Catholic spiritual centers in Latvia, centered on the Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona, a major pilgrimage shrine dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and housing a revered 17th-century miraculous icon known as Our Lady of Aglona.
History
Aglona's historical prominence derives from its role as a Catholic pilgrimage site, particularly following the establishment of Dominican presence and reported Marian devotion.
Early settlement
The area has ancient roots, with evidence of Latgallian (Baltic tribe) settlement and possible pre-Christian worship sites dating back to around 1800–500 BC. The first recorded mention of Aglona as a Christian center dates to 1263, associated with the death of Lithuanian King Mindaugas and his sons.[1]
Catholic evangelization
In 1697–1698, local noblewoman Jeta-Justina Šastovicka invited Dominicans from Vilnius to establish a monastery and school. A wooden church was built in 1699, destroyed by fire in 1766. The current Baroque Basilica of the Assumption was constructed between 1768–1780 (completed 1780, consecrated 1800 by Bishop Jan Benisławski). The shrine developed around a miraculous 17th-century icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Our Lady of Aglona), venerated for reported healings and graces. According to historical accounts, devotion grew significantly in the 18th century, with the Dominicans promoting pilgrimage. The basilica was elevated to minor basilica status by the Holy See, and it is recognized as one of eight international shrines in some sources. The site is under the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rēzekne-Aglona.
Modern faith life
The Basilica remains Latvia's principal Catholic pilgrimage center. Thousands of pilgrims gather annually on August 15, the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with events drawing participants from Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and beyond (estimates of 20,000–50,000 in typical years; higher in special occasions). The shrine hosts national pilgrimages and is a focal point for Latvian Catholics. Latvia has a significant Catholic population in Latgale (historically higher than national averages), though overall practice varies.
Geography and demographics
Aglona is located in eastern Latvia with coordinates at 56.133, 27.017 and an elevation of approximately 145–150 meters. It features a continental climate. The village is part of Aglona Parish (area details limited; parish population 1,469 as of 2025). Population of the village itself around 685 (2025 estimate). Catholic demographics reflect strong local affiliation in Latgale, with the Basilica central to regional faith life.
Parishes
The village falls under the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rēzekne-Aglona. The Basilica serves as the primary shrine and pilgrimage church, functioning beyond standard parish structures.
Notable sites include:
- Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona — Baroque basilica and national shrine, housing the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Aglona.
For the complete and up-to-date list of parishes in the Diocese of Rēzekne-Aglona, consult the official diocesan resources or related Church directories.
Government and culture
Aglona is governed as part of Preiļi Municipality. Culturally, the village centers on the Basilica, a striking white Baroque structure with rococo ornaments, cross vaults, and the venerated icon on the main altar. Annual pilgrimages on August 15 feature Masses, processions, and gatherings, reflecting deep Marian devotion in Latvian Catholicism.
Notable Catholic figures
- Our Lady of Aglona (miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of the Assumption), venerated since the 17th–18th centuries for reported miracles and graces.
Dynamic content
Saints
This list of saints dynamically from the data in the Saints cargo table.
| Saint | Birth Place | Death Place | Notable Address 1 | Notable Address 2 | Notable Address 3 | Notable Address 4 | Notable Address 5
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Parishes
This list of parishes dynamically from the data in the Parishes cargo table. No results
Related
- Latvia
- Latgale
- Roman Catholic Diocese of Rēzekne-Aglona
- Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- Basilica of the Assumption, Aglona