St. Patrick's Cathedral

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The cathedral’s construction was halted during the American Civil War due to lack of funds and labor.

2. 2

   The bronze doors weigh 9,200 pounds each and are designed to be operated by a single person.

3. 3

   The cathedral hosts the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade mass.

4. 4

   In 1979, Pope John Paul II became the first sitting Pope to visit the cathedral.

5. 5

   The catacombs beneath the high altar contain the remains of former Archbishops of New York.

6. 6

   The pulpit was carved in France and imported in pieces to be assembled on-site.

7. 7

   The building features 2,400 seats for worshippers.

8. 8

   The roof is made of slate sourced from Monson, Maine.

Overview

St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic cathedral in North America, occupying a full city block in Midtown Manhattan. Completed in 1878, the structure features white marble from New York and Massachusetts. The building's spires rise 330 feet above the street level. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of New York. The interior contains the Rose Window, designed by Charles Connick. The Great Organ consists of 7,855 pipes. It was declared a New York City landmark in 1966. The cathedral has undergone extensive restorations to clean its stone exterior and stained glass. It remains an active parish church hosting daily services.

Insider tips

• Visit the Lady Chapel behind the high altar for a more intimate, quiet space.

• Check the cathedral website for organ recital schedules to hear the instrument in use.

• Use the self-guided audio tour available via mobile apps to identify architectural details.