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Attraction >Landmark
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Description and Basic Information ::
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 Few buildings in the world are as spellbinding as New York’s own St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Located at 5th Avenue between East 50th and 51st Streets in Midtown Manhattan, this house of worship is noted for its Gothic architecture, which immediately stands out amongst the surrounding skyscrapers. If you have yet to experience its awe-inspiring design, may the Lord God bless you with the opportunity.
With a seating capacity of 2,400, St. Patrick’s is the largest Catholic cathedral in the United States. Designed by James Renwick, the cathedral’s foundations were laid in 1859, though construction was not completed until 1878. Since that day, however, it has enlightened locals and visitors alike, both aesthetically and spiritually. Named for the patron saint of the Irish, it serves as the headquarters of the New York Archdiocese and houses several Sunday worship services, as well as other activities during the week.
The first thing visitors will notice upon entering the structure is the sheer size of the place---it’s enormous. The ceilings reach 330 feet high. The rose window at the entrance measures 26 inches in diameter. The organ used during services houses more than 7,000 pipes. And there are 18 altars and shrines. Giant statues of various saints gaze down at the countless pews from all sides---comforting or intimidating? The marble Lady Chapel, which is set off the main altar, is a quiet place to reflect and worship.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the architectural wonders of the city, if not the country. For more information, call (212) 753-2261. Sunday worship services are held at 7am, 8am, 9am, 10:15am, 12pm, 1pm, 4pm, and 5:30pm, with various additional programs held throughout the week. Guided tours are available by appointment. |
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:: New York City >Midtown :: |
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