In Spokane, Washington, there is a magnificent example of Gothic Revival architecture called the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes. The cathedral serves as the mother church of the Catholic Diocese of Spokane. It was created by the architect Timothy Walsh and finished in 1907.
The cathedral has a brick and stone exterior, and intricate stained-glass windows, huge columns, and sky-high arches decorate the interior. The stunning ceiling fresco depicts the Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the altar is made of Carrara marble.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes’ spire, which stands 185 feet tall and dominates the neighborhood, is one of its most striking features. A copper statue of the Virgin Mary that is illuminated at night and can be seen for miles is perched atop the spire.
Both the cathedral’s exterior and interior are magnificent. Stained glass windows illustrating scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints line the expansive nave, which is flanked by enormous columns. The sanctuary is embellished with a stunning fresco of the Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the altar is a work of art made of Carrara marble. Another highlight is the pipe organ, which has over 3,000 pipes and fills the entire cathedral with sound.
The cathedral’s collection of ancient relics and sacred objects is one of its most distinctive features. Over 200 liturgical vestments, some of which date back to the 16th century, are kept in the sacristy of the cathedral. Antique chalices, ciboria, and other sacred objects used during Mass are also included in the collection.
The most recent renovation and restoration of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes took place in the early 2000s. The stained-glass windows were repaired, the interior of the cathedral was painted, and new lighting was installed to emphasize the space’s beauty.
In Spokane, the cathedral is a significant place of Catholic worship and community. The cathedral offers special liturgies and events throughout the year in addition to daily Mass, one of the most well-attended of which is the annual Christmas Eve Mass.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes is significant to Spokane’s civic and cultural life. The Spokane Symphony and other regional and national musicians have performed at numerous concerts, art exhibits, and other events held at the cathedral over the years.
Additionally, the cathedral is a well-liked tourist attraction in Spokane. The cathedral is open for visitors to explore on their own, though guided tours can be scheduled in advance. Numerous religious gifts and souvenirs, such as books, rosaries, and other religious items, are available at the cathedral gift shop.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes in Spokane serves as a significant place of Catholic worship and community and is a magnificent example of Gothic Revival architecture. The cathedral is a true work of art and architecture with its magnificent stained-glass windows, imposing columns, and soaring arches. A visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe and inspired, whether you are a local or a visitor to Spokane.