The cathedral is built on a base of rubber lead-core seismic isolators designed to withstand an 8.0 magnitude earthquake.
The 333-foot-long tapestry cycle by artist John Nava includes 25 saints and blesseds, featuring contemporary figures like Mother Teresa.
The cathedral does not contain a single 90-degree angle, as the architect prioritized fluid, non-orthogonal shapes.
The altar is carved from a single block of Spanish red marble.
The baptismal font was created from a single piece of dark granite, weighing several tons.
The cathedral's bronze doors feature reliefs created by artist Robert Graham.
The mausoleum level is open to the public and features intricate mosaic art and stained glass.
The complex layout incorporates the 101 Freeway tunnel underneath the plaza level.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is a contemporary Roman Catholic cathedral featuring a deconstructivist design by architect José Rafael Moneo. It replaces the Cathedral of Saint Vibiana, which was damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The structure is finished in colored architectural concrete and sand-blasted stone rather than traditional stained glass, relying on alabaster windows to filter natural light. It houses a 6,000-pipe organ built by the Dobson Pipe Organ Builders. The site serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and is located on a 5.5-acre plot in the Civic Center. The mausoleum located in the lower level contains the remains of former archbishops and local historical figures. The cathedral complex includes a plaza, a conference center, and a residence for clergy. Seismic base isolators allow the building to remain standing during significant earthquake activity.
The elevated plaza offering a wide-angle view of the building's distinct angled facade and the Los Angeles skyline.
Visit the lower-level mausoleum for a quieter, often overlooked experience with unique architectural details.
Check the cathedral website for scheduled concert series, as the acoustics are engineered for pipe organ performances.
Avoid visiting during major liturgical holidays if you are not attending mass, as the building may be closed to general sightseeing.
Occasionally closed to tourists during private events or major liturgical services.
Modest dress is required; silence is expected in the sanctuary and mausoleum.
