The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is a magnificent Romanesque Revival landmark that shelters a grandiose Byzantine-style interior. Completed in 1914, the church was designated a cathedral basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1997. Visit this religious monument to admire a stunning exhibit of mosaic art. Find historical relics on display in a museum and attend live music recitals.
Gaze in appreciation at the bell towers, spires and green-tiled dome of the impressive building while walking around its perimeter. In a lawn adjacent to the entrance stands Polish sculptor Wiktor Szostalo’s The Angel of Harmony. This 14-foot-tall (4-meter) sculpture represents racial justice and peace. It portrays a winged African American angel alongside children with Asian, European and Hispanic traits.
Step inside to discover an interior decorated from floor to ceiling with intricate and colorful mosaics. Over a dozen artists, including Hildreth Meière and Jan Henryk de Rosen, contributed to the lavish ornamentation. Study the biblical scenes from the Old and New Testaments on the main dome. See representations of King Louis IX of France and scenes from archdiocesan life.
In the cathedral’s lower level is the Mosaic Museum, where exhibits show how the mosaics were installed. It also has examples of historic vestments and the throne of Pope John Paul II.
See the tombs of a former archbishop and cardinals in the crypt. Don’t miss The Saint John’s Bible, a hand-written and illuminated version of the Bible by British calligrapher Donald Jackson.
The St. Louis Cathedral Concerts series brings musical entertainment to the cathedral throughout the year. Appreciate the superb acoustics at chamber and classical music recitals and performances by gospel choirs, organists and sopranos.
Find the cathedral basilica in the heart of the Central West End neighborhood. Take the light rail to the Central West End or Cortex stop and then walk for 15 minutes.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is open daily and has free admission. Contact the cathedral via the official website to arrange a free guided tour on weekdays. Make a contribution to enter the museum.
