St. Patrick’s Cathedral is located on 5th Avenue in New York City.
The cathedral is approximately 396 feet high and about 174 feet wide, making it one of the largest churches in the United States.
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History of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral was designed by James Renwick. It has a seating capacity of 2400 people.
Its construction began in 1858 and was completed in 1878, taking approximately 20 years to complete as construction was halted during the Civil War.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a popular tourist destination in New York, visited by millions of tourists every year.
Many ceremonies and religious programs are held in this cathedral.
Architectural details of St. Patrick Cathedral
The church is designed in Gothic architectural style.
Many famous people have visited and worshipped here, including Pope John Paul II when he visited the United States in 1979.
Stained glass windows inside the cathedral
The church is famous for its stained glass windows which were created in France and Birmingham, England.
The church has undergone a major restoration work from 2012 to 2015 which has cost $175 million to keep its beauty intact.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in NYC
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Celebration Takes Place in New York City on March 17th
The parade first started in the year 1762 making it a 250 year old event which taxes take place every year,
Parade was first introduced by Irish soldiers in the British Army to honor their heritage for the cathedral.
The parade march starts from 5th Avenue, 44th Street ending at 79th Street.
The procession begins at 11 am with approximately 150,000 marchers
Approximately 2 million people attend this parade, making it one of the largest public events in New York. The parade includes;
- Irish groups
- Bagpapers
- Marching bands from schools
- Military, Police and Fire departments
- Various Irish organizations
The parade will be broadcast live on television channels and will be watched by millions of people locally and internationally.
Things to See Inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral
The design of the cathedral is built in Gothic arches and columns. About 2400 people can worship inside.
The centerpiece of the cathedral is the high altar made of marble and bronze.
There is a rose window at the entrance of the church which provides light to the cathedral.
There are statues of Saint Patrick, Saint Joseph and other saints here.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral has 7,000 pipes, making it one of the largest pipe organs in the world.
There are over 21 stained glass windows inside the cathedral, which were made in England and France.
There are 14 sculptures on the walls of the cathedral.
The interior of the cathedral is made of granite, marble and limestone.
Unknown Facts About St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- The construction of this cathedral took 20 years.
- Pope John Paul II visited the cathedral
- This cathedral holds the title of having one of the largest pipe organs in the world, which has more than 7000 pipes.
- It is the largest Gothic style cathedral in the United States.
- The stained glass windows inside the cathedral are brought from European countries.
Best time to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
If you want a quieter experience, weekdays are good. (Monday to Friday)
Weekends are usually more crowded with tourists and locals.(Saturday & Sunday)
St Patrick’s Cathedral visiting hours
The cathedral is open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
How to reach St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Directions Via Subway
- Take the E or M train to the 5th Avenue or 53rd Street station.
- Take the B, D, F or M train to the Rockefeller Center station at 47th-50th Streets.
- Take the 6 train to 51st Street Station
- Take the N, Q, R, or W train to 49th Street Station.
Directions Via Bus
- Take the M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 bus to get to 5th Avenue and 50th Street.
- Take M50 bus to 50th Street and Madison Avenue.
Attractions that can be visited near St. Patrick’s Cathedral
After visiting the cathedral, consider checking out these other sights to make the most of your visit.
1. Rockefeller Center
Distance: 2-min walk (across the road)
2. Museum of Modern Art
Distance: 5 min walk (on West 53rd Street)
3. Fifth Avenue Shopping
Distance: Right Outside The Cathedral
4. Central Park
Distance: 10-min walk (North 5th Avenue)
5. Radio City Music Hall
Distance: 5-min walk (west on 50th Street)
6. Times Square
Distance:10-min walk (west on 50th Street)
Photography of St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of New York City’s most spectacular architectural landmarks. Here are a few tips that will help you take better shots.
Best places to take photos inside the cathedral
1. The High Altar
The high altar is made of marble and bronze surrounded by Gothic arches. It is an ideal place to capture a picture of the cathedral.
2. The Rose Window
There are rose windows above the entrance. The stained glass window fills the interior with colored light and is one of the most photographed spaces.
The nave is a long aisle with pillars and arches, which offers a spectacular view
4. The Stained Glass Windows
Inside the cathedral are 21 stained glass windows imported from France and England, which are beautiful works of art
5. The Pipe Organ
There are over 7,000 pipes and the cathedral’s pipe organ is the largest in the world. Perfect place to take a photo with it
Conclusion
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is not just a religious place. It symbolizes the rich history, architectural excellence and cultural significance of New York City. Famous for its stunning Gothic Revival design and to its relaxed atmosphere in the middle of bustling streets of Manhattan
Location of Cathedral
St Patrick Cathedral, 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, United States