St. Patrick's Cathedral

Overview

St. Patrick's Cathedral is a magnificent Neo-Gothic Catholic cathedral on Fifth Avenue, the largest decorated Gothic-style Catholic cathedral in North America. It stands in striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers surrounding it.

Highlights

• The Facade: Gleaming white marble towers rising 101 meters, flanking a massive rose window, creating a dramatic medieval contrast against the glass and steel of Rockefeller Center directly across the street.
• Interior: A vast nave seating 2,200, featuring 70 stained glass windows made by artisans in Chartres, France, and Boston.
• Lady Chapel: An intimate, ornately decorated chapel behind the main altar with stunning blue stained glass.

History

Construction began in 1858 and the cathedral was dedicated in 1879. Designed by James Renwick Jr., it underwent a major $177 million restoration completed in 2015 that restored the marble to its original brilliant white.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: The cathedral is free to visit and is open daily, though visitors should be respectful during active services.
• Rockefeller Combo: Located directly across from Rockefeller Center, making both easy to visit together.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.