The cathedral's dome is crowned with a 12-foot gilded cross.
The interior altar is constructed from Calacatta gold marble.
The structure's design includes a specialized pipe organ with over 3,000 individual pipes.
The site contains a crypt specifically intended for the burial of future Bishops of Knoxville.
The cathedral floor plan follows the traditional Latin cross configuration.
The Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Knoxville is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Knoxville. Completed in 2018, the cathedral replaced an older structure to serve the growing regional Catholic population. It features a limestone facade designed in a traditional cruciform layout with a central dome reaching 144 feet in height. The interior incorporates marble sourced from regional Tennessee quarries and stained glass windows imported from Italy. The building can accommodate approximately 1,000 worshippers within its nave. It serves as the seat of the Bishop of Knoxville and hosts major diocesan liturgical celebrations.
The exterior approach facing the main limestone entrance provides the best perspective of the dome and facade.
Visit during the weekday mid-morning hours for a quieter experience.
Consult the diocesan calendar online before visiting to ensure the cathedral is not closed for a private event or funeral.
Take time to view the narthex, which serves as a transitional space with unique architectural details.
Avoid visiting during Sunday morning mass times if you intend to tour the architecture, as the building is strictly reserved for worship.
The cathedral may be closed to casual visitors during private sacraments or diocesan ceremonies; check the website calendar before arrival.
Modest attire is expected, covering shoulders and knees; maintain a quiet voice and refrain from taking photos during active prayer services.
