Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago
Journeying north along State Street, your path will lead you to the splendid Holy Name Cathedral, which has recently undergone an extensive restoration. Serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic archdiocese of Chicago, this majestic Gothic Revival church was originally conceived in 1875 by the prolific architect Patrick Charles Keely. By that time, his portfolio already boasted an astounding six hundred churches and sixteen cathedrals, and Holy Name Cathedral stands as a testament to his mastery. The church's grandeur is evident in the towering pinnacles and graceful arches, reminiscent of the Gothic churches that grace the landscapes of Europe.
Venturing inside, you'll encounter a treasure trove of contemporary spiritual artistry. From the suspended sculpted resurrection crucifix that hangs from the ceiling to the bronze-cast Stations of the Cross on the nave walls, every detail exudes reverence and grace. Take a moment to appreciate the vaulted ceiling, the bundled piers, and the intricate wooden tracery, all symbolizing the mystical Tree of Life. Also, cast your gaze upon the high-hung red decorations above the sanctuary – these are the cardinals' hats, or 'galeros', each representing one of the city's past cardinals.
Why You Should Visit:
Undoubtedly one of the most impressive cathedrals in the United States, standing shoulder to shoulder with its European counterparts. While it may not be the largest in size, its breathtaking stone exterior, awe-inspiring wooden interior, and resplendent stained glass, all in the classic Gothic style, make it a must-see destination for anyone with an appreciation for religious and architectural splendor.
Venturing inside, you'll encounter a treasure trove of contemporary spiritual artistry. From the suspended sculpted resurrection crucifix that hangs from the ceiling to the bronze-cast Stations of the Cross on the nave walls, every detail exudes reverence and grace. Take a moment to appreciate the vaulted ceiling, the bundled piers, and the intricate wooden tracery, all symbolizing the mystical Tree of Life. Also, cast your gaze upon the high-hung red decorations above the sanctuary – these are the cardinals' hats, or 'galeros', each representing one of the city's past cardinals.
Why You Should Visit:
Undoubtedly one of the most impressive cathedrals in the United States, standing shoulder to shoulder with its European counterparts. While it may not be the largest in size, its breathtaking stone exterior, awe-inspiring wooden interior, and resplendent stained glass, all in the classic Gothic style, make it a must-see destination for anyone with an appreciation for religious and architectural splendor.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Chicago. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Holy Name Cathedral on Map
Sight Name: Holy Name Cathedral
Sight Location: Chicago, USA (See walking tours in Chicago)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Chicago, USA (See walking tours in Chicago)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Chicago, Illinois
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Creating your own self-guided walk in Chicago is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
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Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.7 Km or 2.9 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
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Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
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Travel Distance: 1.7 Km or 1.1 Miles
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Popularly referred to as “Chicago's front lawn,” this lakefront park is... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Chicago Introduction Walking Tour
Chicago, perched on the shores of Lake Michigan in Illinois, is a city steeped in history and urban vibrancy. Known by numerous nicknames such as the Windy City and the City of Big Shoulders, it boasts a skyline marked by towering structures. The area of today's Chicago, initially inhabited by Native American tribes, saw its first European-settled reference as "Chicagou" in 1679, a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
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