Introduction to Pilar Cathedral: The Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar) is a Catholic temple built from 1681 to 1872. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Pilar, whom John Paul II called "Mother of the Spanish People." The church is also known as the first Virgin Church in history.