Rte nationwide special on knock shrine

 

RTE's Nationwide has a special programme on Knock Shrine next Monday, June 22, at 7 p.m.

Millions of visitors have made their way to this historic site since 1879 when it was reputed that a number of people had witnessed an apparition there.  

Presenter Anne Cassin joins the Armagh diocese as they journey through Knock with the primate of All Ireland Archbishop Eamon Martin following in the footsteps of fifteen witnesses who are said to have experienced an apparition 136 years ago.

Well over a century on from the events of 1879, Knock continues to attract over a million and a half people every year and to accommodate those numbers in a more comfortable and welcoming environment the Shrine is undergoing a multi-million euro facelift.  Phase one was the Basilica where thousands come every Sunday. Reporter Mary Fanning goes to see how this modernisation is working.

The Shrine at Knock is a major visitor attraction for pilgrims not just from across Ireland but also from across the water and from Europe. Later this season, Knock will host the first ever pilgrimage directly from New York. 

Reporter Mary Fanning finds out more about the international airport and other facilities associated with the Shrine.