Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
18. St. Patrick's Cathedral
One of New York City's most prominent landmarks, St. Patrick's Cathedral is a Roman
Catholic Church that is also the seat of the archbishop of the New York archdiocese. The
elaborately designed neo-gothic-style cathedral is one of Fifth Avenue's treasures, and a
truly awe-inspiring sight to behold.
The site has been home to a number of churches over the centuries, but it wasn't until 1858
that the first cornerstone of the new cathedral was laid. The Civil War put a decade hold on
the construction, and it wasn't ultimately completed until 1878.
The exceptionally large structure loomed over the streets and was one of the largest in the
city at the time. With a seating capacity of 2,200 people, it engulfs an entire city block.
Beneath the high altar a crypt was built. It holds the entombed remains of the notable indi-
viduals who served the archdiocese, including eight archbishops and several bishops; two of
which have been established as saints within the church.
