The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis
Where? St. Louis, Missouri
Year Built: 1914
Religion: Roman Catholic
Still In Use? Yes
Constructed as a substitute for the previous Cathedral of St. Louis, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis was finished in 1914. It currently serves as the seat for the archbishop of the Archdiocese of St. Louis but is most known for its collection of mosaics.
With over 41.5 million individual glass tesserae pieces, the cathedral has the most extensive mosaic collection in the world besides Russia. These works of art were first installed in 1912 and finally completed in 1988.
While most of them depict Biblical scenes, a section of the cathedral’s artwork is dedicated to King Louis IX of France and his life, the church’s namesake.
In addition to its mosaics, the cathedral is also home to a famous crypt, which currently houses three one-time cardinals, and The Angel of Harmony sculpture was installed in 1999. The statue, which depicts a winged angel with three children, symbolizes racial harmony.
Fun Fact: The very first parachute jump from a moving airplane was made in St. Louis.
