The history of the pilgrimage tradition is connected with the veneration of the Virgin Mary and the statue of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows. Over the centuries, the growing number of pilgrims contributed to the development of the religious complex and the town itself.

The present basilica was built in the 18th century in the Baroque style. Its monumental architecture, interior decoration and relationship with the adjoining monastery create one of the most significant historic religious ensembles in the region.

The basilica became an important centre of Marian devotion and was later recognised as a basilica minor. Its importance extends beyond religious life: the complex is also an architectural, artistic and cultural landmark that reflects the development of pilgrimage traditions in Central Europe.

Visitors can explore the exterior architecture of the basilica as well as its richly decorated interior. The church contains works of art associated with the history of the shrine and the long tradition of veneration of the Virgin Mary.

Šaštín-Stráže also illustrates the way religious traditions have shaped the cultural landscape of Slovakia. Pilgrimage routes connected local communities with wider European networks of religious travel, while churches and monasteries became important centres of education, art and social life.

Within the Cyril and Methodius Route, Šaštín-Stráže represents the living Christian heritage that developed over centuries following the establishment of Christianity among the Slavic peoples. The site therefore complements the archaeological locations associated with Great Moravia with a later and still active tradition of Christian culture.

Today, the basilica remains an active religious site while also welcoming visitors interested in architecture, history and cultural heritage.