The Cathedral of St. Patrick

Context

Exterior of The Cathedral of
St. Patrick

The Cathedral of St. Patrick is a Catholic cathedral commonly known as St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located right in the middle of Manhattan. The land that it is built on has been owned by some sort of religious organization since 1810. Between then and 1858, when construction began, the land had been used as a school, an orphanage, a safe haven, and even an asylum. Commissioned by Archbishop John Joseph Hughes, St. Patrick’s Cathedral was built to promote religious tolerance. Construction lasted twenty years, finishing in 1878. The cathedral was dedicated in the following year. The structure was designed by James Renwick. He decided to replicate classic gothic architecture in order to create ties to the “Old World.” This remarkable piece of architecture is noted for its craftsmanship and shows that America is capable of producing classic architecture. There is a large rose window similar to that of Norte Dame in Paris. Also, Renwick added two 100 meter tall spires, also a typical element of gothic cathedrals. The New York City cathedral became a national landmark in 1976. Since then, the church has gone through an extensive renovation, which was completed just days before Pope Francis’s visit in September, 2015. 

How the Artist Conveys Meaning

Interior of The Cathedral of
St. Patrick

Serenity is a major theme that might not have been intended by the architect. While peace is intended in every place of worship, there is a special quiet that can only really be heard in St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The cathedral is located on 5th Avenue, one of the most iconic streets in the world, and is in one of number one tourist attractions, New York City. Outside of the walls, there is a bustling city filed with a variety of noise. However, when one steps in the cathedral, the whole world seems to slow down. It is nearly silent inside, despite the multitude of visitors wandering the chapel. It serves as a calm place in the hectic and busy lives of tourists and New Yorkers alike. In a similar way, another theme is prayer and worship. Again, this is a given for any place of worship, but it is amplified because of the location. Inside the chapel, many visitors can be seen either praying, or simply sitting and enjoying the beauty of the building. Again, it is a beautiful way to stop and put life on pause for a few minutes. Even is one is not religious, because of the quiet, it is a great place to relax and reflect.

Why I Find it Beautiful

St. Patrick's Cathedral and statue
of Atlas located across the street

I find this building beautiful not only for the architecture, but also for the purpose it serves. It allows people to simply take a break from life for a second. It is also beautiful to reflect on the architecture from the outside. The spires are simply stunning and the stain glass windows are breathtaking. Also, it stands out from the rest of the stores and modern buildings along 5th avenue. For Christians and non-Christians alike, there is beauty in the history of the church. St. Patrick’s Cathedral was built during a time of great change in this country, the Civil War. Even though construction halted during the conflict, it is an interesting snapshot of history and what times were like back then. It was build during to time of the I also find it beautiful because of its initial intention, religious tolerance. This is still very relevant today. Because New York City is a melting pot or different cultures and religions, it is important that people know the intention of the cathedral. Whatever your views on religion are, there is no arguing that this church is an important architectural monument that has a rich history and an important message.