St. Patrick's Cathedral, Gothic Revival cathedral in Midtown Manhattan, United States
St. Patrick's Cathedral is a Catholic house of worship built in the Gothic Revival style from Tuckahoe marble in Midtown Manhattan and fills an entire city block between Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue. Two slender spires rise 100 meters (329 feet) into the air and frame the main facade with its three large bronze doors.
Construction began in 1858 under Archbishop John Hughes, but the Civil War interrupted work for several years. The dedication took place on May 25, 1879, though the twin spires were not completed until 1888.
The building bears the name of Ireland's patron saint and reflects the story of Catholic immigration to New York. Visitors experience regular services in multiple languages along with weddings and concerts beneath the high vaults.
The entrance lies on Fifth Avenue and the building opens daily from early morning until late evening. Those who wish to view the rose windows and side chapels in calm should visit outside service times.
Nineteen bells in the north tower form a complete peal that rings during special occasions. Inside, two large pipe organs work together and create a rich sound landscape during liturgy.
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