The National Shrine of St. John Neumann

Catholics come from far and wide to pray to the remarkably well-preserved body of St. John Neumann (1811–1860). Born in Bohemia, Neumann became an American Catholic Church bishop in Philadelphia [2] in 1952. He died eight years later at age 48 and was enshrined in a crypt in the basement of Saint Peter’s Church, as he’d requested.

Devoted followers have come to pray to him ever since. Many people believed their prayers were answered by the journey, and with the miracles they experienced, his popularity soared.

In 1977, he was canonized and declared “America’s first saint” by Pope Paul VI. His life is depicted on stained-glass windows next to the glass case that holds his body.

The baroque church is an active parish and not a major tourist stop, so call ahead to make sure it is a good time for a visit.