# What is a basilica (honorary title)?
**As an honorary title, ‘basilica’ refers to a church building that has received a special distinction (Basilica minor) from the Pope, recognising its historical, religious, or architectural significance.** A church may hold this title regardless of its architectural form.
## Requirements
The Pope may grant the title ‘Basilica minor’ based on:
– Exceptional historical or religious significance
– Architectural merit
– Status as a pilgrimage destination
– Liturgical importance
## Difference from the architectural form
– **Basilica as architectural form** — a building with a raised nave and lower side aisles
– **Basilica as honorary title** — a church honoured by the Pope, regardless of building form
A church can hold the honorary title without being built in basilica form, and vice versa.
## Difference from a hall church
In a basilica (architectural form), the central nave is higher than the side aisles. In a hall church, all aisles are the same height. This difference fundamentally affects the lighting and spatial experience of the building.
## Related terms
– Basilica (architectural form)
– Nave
– Hall church
– Vault
– Apse
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