American Cathedrals
Cathedrals are the churches of a bishop and usually belong to Roman Catholic, Orthodox or Episcopalian denominations. The United States is home to many notable cathedrals, some of which have truly exceptional architecture and artworks. Below is an illustrated index of the 12 American Cathedrals profiled on Sacred Destinations so far. For photo credits, please see corresponding articles.
The Baltimore Basilica was the first Catholic cathedral built in the United States after the adoption of the Constitution and became a symbol for religious freedom in the new nation.
Founded in 1818, the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Boston is a historic Epicopalian cathedral with a thriving congregation.
Dedicated in 2008, the Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland, California is a magnificent example of ultra-modern religious architecture.
Completed in 2002, this modern Catholic cathedral is the third-largest in the world. It is a fine example of modern religious architecture and contains many notable artworks.
This Episcopal cathedral on the Upper West Side is the largest cathedral in the world, even though it is still incomplete. It is known for its strong interfaith tradition.
Completed in 1964 in a neo-Gothic style, this active Episcopal cathedral contains fine stained glass windows, two labyrinths, and other notable modern artworks.
This Neo-Gothic Episcopal cathedral is the sixth largest cathedral in the world. Completed in 1990 after 83 years of construction, it hosts important national ceremonies such as presidential funerals.
Completed in 1907, this is Seattle's Roman Catholic cathedral. Built on a grand scale, it features fine architecture and the relics of Mother Cabrini, the first American saint.
Rebuilt in 1794, this is the oldest active cathedral in the United States. The center of the original settlement of New Orleans, it is still a prominent landmark in the French Quarter.
This Episcopal cathedral has had a rocky history but is now a happily established church. Its fortress-like form dominates a hilltop with beautiful lake views.
This is the largest Catholic cathedral in the United States. Strongly rooted in Irish Catholic heritage, it hosted many of the funerals for fallen police and firefighters after 9/11.
Built in 1941 in downtown Seattle, St. Spiridon is a Russian Orthodox cathedral complete with blue onion domes and golden Orthodox crosses.
