The cathedral’s dome is modeled after the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.
The structure contains no structural steel in the dome; it is constructed of self-supporting masonry.
Over 24 varieties of marble were used in the interior, sourced from quarries in France, Italy, Greece, and the United States.
The cathedral features a 'cathedra' or bishop's chair that is symbolic of the archbishop's authority.
The floor of the nave is composed of geometric mosaic patterns inspired by early Roman basilicas.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is a monumental Beaux-Arts style Catholic cathedral completed in 1915, designed by architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray. It occupies a prominent site on Summit Hill, overlooking downtown St. Paul and the Mississippi River valley. The structure is built primarily from St. Cloud granite and features a copper-clad dome rising 175 feet above the nave floor. Its interior contains 24 stained glass windows designed by Charles Connick and a grand baldacchino modeled after the one in St. Peter's Basilica. The building was designated as the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul in 2009. It serves as the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The cathedral’s exterior footprint spans approximately 300 feet in length and 200 feet in width.
From the exterior balcony on Summit Avenue, providing a view of the cathedral facade against the city skyline.
Walk around the exterior perimeter to view the distinct architectural transitions from the apse to the main facade.
Check the bulletin boards near the entrance for information on organ recitals or choral performances.
Visit the lower level to see the various chapels dedicated to different saints.
Attempting to photograph during a wedding or funeral service, which takes precedence over tourism.
Closed to visitors during private religious services or major liturgical celebrations.
Maintain a quiet demeanor as this is an active house of worship; modest attire is expected.
