St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the biggest cathedral church of North America which has been designed according to the Neo-Gothic style. St. Patrick’s Cathedral in North America is the seat of the archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York.
The St. Patrick’s Cathedral has been serving the people for the past 150 years and this cathedral was the brainchild of Archbishop John Hughes. Some people regarded the proposal of the construction of the Cathedral as “Hughes’ Folly” as the location of the site was in the vicinity of the wilderness. Nevertheless, the vision of Hughes and his daring efforts with the hope that this will become one of the throbbing centers of the city, made his dream come true.
The cathedral was designed by James Renwick Jr. in the Gothic Revival style. The cathedral has undergone much renovation and restructuring ever since it has been built. For instance, the stained glass windows in the Lady Chapel were added during 1912-1930 and were made in England.
The cathedral reiterates the fact that “Rome wasn’t built in a day”. It is not a matter of just one generation. The ongoing process of renovation proves that it is the work of past, present and future generations.
The music played at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York is planned and there are full-time musicians as well as guest choristers and musicians who are engaged in this work. The cathedral also organizes various concerts and musical programs.
The cathedral is experiencing an extended restoration that is expected to take three years for the completion. The estimated budget of the restoration is $177 million.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral Location Map
Facts about St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Francis Cooper bought the land which seats the present cathedral in 1799 during an auction for non-payment of taxes. He handed it to the trustees of St. Peter’s Church.
- The foundation stone for the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, NYC was laid down in the year 1858, but the church was opened for public purpose in the year 1879.
- The 150 years old Kilgen organ is played all year round.
Where is St. Patrick’s Cathedral ?
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is located at the merging point of 50th street and Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. The nearest airport is Dublin airport. You can also choose to reach the Cathedral via subway or a bus.
Best time to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
One can visit the St. Patrick’s Cathedral throughout the year. It is advisable to avoid visiting the Cathedral during the mass timings if you are a non-religious tourist. During the offering of the mass services, photography is prohibited.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral Hours
The Cathedral of St. Patrick’s is opened from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm on all weekdays. On weekends the church closes at 5:00 pm.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tickets
The tours to the St. Patrick’s Cathedral are free of cost. You may donate according to your wish.
More about St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Nearby Attractions: Chrysler Building, General Electric Building, Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), Radio City Music Hall, Flatiron Building and Central Park
Related City : Dublin
Photo by : David Shankbone
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