12 Most Breathtaking Cathedrals in America
Cathedrals hold a unique place in architecture and culture; they are not just places of worship but monumental testaments to history, craftsmanship, and artistry. Each structure tells a story of its era with intricate designs, towering spires, and awe-inspiring interiors.
According to Rentech Digital, the United States is home to approximately 186 cathedrals as of January 2025. Each offers its own stunning selection of architectural masterpieces, merging traditional craftsmanship with American sensibilities. Here’s a look at 12 of the most breathtaking cathedrals in America, each with its unique character and history, standing as silent witnesses to centuries of faith, resilience, and creativity.
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis – St. Louis, Missouri
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, also known as the “New Cathedral,” is a breathtaking Byzantine and Romanesque architectural masterpiece. It boasts the world’s most extensive collection of mosaic artwork, covering an astounding 83,000 square feet with over 41.5 million individual tiles.
Completed in 1914, its dazzling interior features intricate gilded designs and detailed artwork, including a tribute to Louis IX, the saint for whom St. Louis is named. Interestingly, the Cathedral’s mosaics took an incredible 76 years to complete, with the final touches added in 1988.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – Washington, D.C.
As the largest Catholic church in North America, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Completed in 1959, this monumental structure blends Byzantine and Romanesque revival styles to honor Mary, the Immaculate Conception.
Inside, visitors are greeted by over 75,000 square feet of stunning mosaic art and more than 80 chapels dedicated to diverse cultural representations of the Virgin Mary.
Cathedral of Saint Paul – Saint Paul, Minnesota
The Cathedral of Saint Paul, an architectural gem in the Beaux-Arts style, is one of the most prominent landmarks in Minnesota. Built in 1915, it features a magnificent copper dome and intricate stained-glass windows.
Designated as the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul, the Cathedral was among the first in the U.S. to incorporate modern acoustic advancements, enhancing the auditory experience for its visitors.
Grace Cathedral – San Francisco, California
Perched in San Francisco’s Nob Hill neighborhood, Grace Cathedral is a stunning neo-Gothic marvel completed in 1964. It is renowned for its beautiful labyrinth, bold stained-glass windows, and unique depictions of 20th-century icons like Albert Einstein.
Supporting community art is a core mission of the Cathedral, which houses one of the largest collections of De Rosen stained glass windows in the United States.
Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption – Covington, Kentucky
Often referred to as a “mini-Notre Dame,” the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, Kentucky, is admired for its French-Gothic design. Built in 1910, it is home to the world’s largest church-stained glass window, measuring 24 feet by 67 feet. T
his stunning window features 117 biblical figures and stories, making it a true masterpiece of religious art.
St. Mary of the Angels – Chicago, Illinois
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, St. Mary of the Angels is a neo-Renaissance masterpiece known for its elegant marble design and 29 stunning domes. Built in 1920, the church has deep ties to the Polish American community, reflecting much of their history and culture.
Walking into its ornate interior feels like stepping into a European basilica, making it a unique landmark in the city.
Washington National Cathedral – Washington, D.C.
The Washington National Cathedral is a neo-Gothic architectural icon symbolizing faith and national unity. Completed in 1990 after 83 years of construction, it features unique and unexpected elements, such as a Darth Vader gargoyle on the northwest tower and a piece of the moon embedded in its famous stained glass, “Space Window.”
This Cathedral is both a place of worship and a cultural landmark.
Holy Name Cathedral – Chicago, Illinois
Completed in 1875, Holy Name Cathedral is an architectural marvel that combines Gothic Revival design with modern updates following a 2008 fire. The ceiling features intricate hand-carved wooden details and arches, all supported by majestic columns crafted from Wisconsin limestone.
As the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago, this Cathedral plays a vital role in connecting millions of worshippers in the area.
Cathedral of Saint John the Divine – New York, New York
The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine in Manhattan is the world’s largest Gothic Cathedral. Although its construction began in 1892, it remains unfinished. Its enormous nave stretches approximately 121,000 square feet—larger than two football fields combined.
Beyond its architectural grandeur, this Cathedral plays a vibrant cultural role. It hosts art exhibits, live performances, and other community events, making it a dynamic part of New York City’s cultural fabric.
The Cathedral of the Madeleine
The Cathedral of the Madeleine, completed in 1909, offers a striking blend of Romanesque foundations and Gothic Revival details. Its colorful murals beautifully merge traditional and local influences, creating a distinctive style.
While rooted in Catholicism, the Cathedral is also known for its active participation in interfaith initiatives, fostering a spirit of community and connection.
San Fernando Cathedral
As the oldest continuously functioning Cathedral in the United States, San Fernando Cathedral holds a special place in Texan history and culture. Dating back to 1750, it is situated in the heart of San Antonio and remains a key city symbol.
The Cathedral is also famous for housing a reliquary believed to contain remains of Davy Crockett and other Alamo defenders, adding to its historical significance.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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