The Cathedral of Saint Paul, located in St. Paul, Minnesota, is a breathtaking example of Beaux-Arts architecture and a prominent landmark in the city. As the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, it stands as a testament to the rich history and faith of the community. In this guided tour, we will delve into the interior of the cathedral, exploring its stunning features, intricate details, and the stories behind its construction.
History and Architecture
The Cathedral of Saint Paul was designed by architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray and constructed between 1906 and 1915. The cathedral’s design was influenced by the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome and the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris. The exterior is made of granite and features a large dome that rises 186 feet above the ground. The interior, however, is where the true beauty of the cathedral lies, with its stunning beaux-arts style architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and intricate stone carvings.
The Nave and Transepts
Upon entering the cathedral, visitors are immediately struck by the grandeur of the nave, which stretches 216 feet in length and 72 feet in width. The nave is flanked by two transepts, each featuring a stunning rose window. The rose windows are made up of hundreds of pieces of colored glass, carefully arranged to depict various biblical scenes and symbols. The transepts also feature intricate stone carvings, including the Stations of the Cross, which are beautifully rendered in marble.
The piers that support the nave are adorned with statues of various saints, including St. Patrick and St. Joseph. The vaulted ceiling above the nave is made of plaster and features a series of coffered arches, which add to the overall sense of grandeur and awe. The coffered arches are also adorned with gilded details, which catch the light and add a touch of elegance to the space.
The Sanctuary and Altar
The sanctuary is the focal point of the cathedral, and it is here that the main altar is located. The altar is made of white marble and features a beautiful mosaic depiction of the Last Supper. The sanctuary is also home to a stunning stained-glass window that depicts the Resurrection of Christ. The window is made up of hundreds of pieces of colored glass and is a masterpiece of modern stained-glass art.
The tabernacle is located on the north side of the sanctuary and is made of gilded bronze. It features a beautiful enamel depiction of the Blessed Sacrament. The ambry is located on the south side of the sanctuary and contains the holy oils used in the sacraments.
The Chapels and Shrines
The cathedral features several chapels and shrines, each dedicated to a particular saint or devotion. The Chapel of St. Joseph is located on the north side of the nave and features a beautiful stained-glass window that depicts the life of St. Joseph. The Chapel of the Blessed Virgin is located on the south side of the nave and features a stunning mosaic depiction of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin.
The Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament is located in the north transept and features a beautiful tabernacle made of gilded bronze. The Shrine of St. Patrick is located in the south transept and features a stunning stained-glass window that depicts the life of St. Patrick.
Other Features and Artwork
The cathedral also features a number of other stunning artworks and features, including a pipe organ that is considered one of the finest in the country. The organ features over 5,000 pipes and is capable of producing a wide range of tonal colors and textures. The organ loft is located above the nave and offers a stunning view of the cathedral.
The cathedral's crypt is located beneath the sanctuary and features a number of tombs and memorials to notable Catholics. The crypt chapel is a small, intimate space that features a beautiful stained-glass window that depicts the Resurrection of Christ.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Nave | 216 feet in length, 72 feet in width |
| Transepts | Feature stunning rose windows and intricate stone carvings |
| Sanctuary | Features the main altar and a stunning stained-glass window |
| Chapels and Shrines | Dedicated to various saints and devotions |
| Organ | Features over 5,000 pipes and is considered one of the finest in the country |
Visiting the Cathedral
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is open to visitors daily, and guided tours are available. Visitors can explore the cathedral on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about its history, architecture, and artwork. The cathedral also offers a number of special events and programs throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and devotional services.
Practical Information
The cathedral is located at 239 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55102. It is open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, and guided tours are available Monday through Friday at 1:00 pm. The cathedral is also open on weekends, but guided tours are not available. Visitors can park in the cathedral’s parking lot, which is located adjacent to the building.
The cathedral is accessible to visitors with disabilities, and wheelchairs are available upon request. The cathedral also offers assistive listening devices for visitors who are hard of hearing.
What are the hours of operation for the Cathedral of Saint Paul?
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The cathedral is open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Are guided tours available?
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Yes, guided tours are available Monday through Friday at 1:00 pm.
Is the cathedral accessible to visitors with disabilities?
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Yes, the cathedral is accessible to visitors with disabilities, and wheelchairs are available upon request.
