Washington National Cathedral

Overview

Washington National Cathedral is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world and the second-largest in the United States. This Gothic Revival masterpiece took 83 years to build, from 1907 to 1990, using traditional limestone construction without a steel frame.

Highlights

• Space Window: Stained-glass window containing an actual moon rock from the Apollo 11 mission.
• Darth Vader Grotesque: A carving of Darth Vader's head high on the northwest tower, chosen from a children's design competition.
• Observation Gallery: Seventh-floor gallery in the central tower with panoramic views of Washington.

History

The cathedral was chartered by Congress in 1893 and its foundation stone was laid in 1907 in the presence of President Theodore Roosevelt. The final finial was set by President George H.W. Bush on September 29, 1990. It sustained damage in the 2011 Virginia earthquake.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Bring binoculars to spot the Darth Vader grotesque on the northwest tower—it's hard to see with the naked eye.
• Tip 2: The Bishop's Garden adjacent to the cathedral is a peaceful medieval-style garden with free entry.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.