Old Cathedral

A Cathedral of many names and many years. «Basilica of St. Louis, King of France.» «Basilica St. Louis» or now «The Old Cathedral. Built from 1830 to 1835 it was the first Cathedral built west of the Mississippi.
While many consider it to be on the Arch grounds it really sits on it own property. In the 1930’s St. Louis wanted to build the Gateway Arch and took most of the land along the riverfront for the purpose of this monument. It was taken by eminent domain. Can’t take a church by eminent domain hence it stood.
While not a huge church nor ornate it has stood in St. Louis as the center of the Catholic Church. And the western part of the United States.
What many need to understand the «Louisiana Purchase» took place in 1803. For this area was part of France. The United States was really an eastern conglomeration of old English colonies. This was the beginning of the formation of what is now the United States. And this Basilica was built a mere 27 years after the purchase. I hope the significance of this Cathedral is more understandable.

The Old Cathedral is undergoing major restoration work. From what I could see this morning at Mass, the interior work is complete or nearly so and it is even more beautiful than before. If you’ve visited the Old Cathedral prior to the restoration, I don’t want to give you details so that you may experience the surprise of seeing the update. If you have never visited before, it’s well worth the trip. Regardless of your religious affiliation, this is a St. Louis treasure you don’t want to miss.

I am thankful that I live in a city that has such rich and vibrant history that seems to mimic the whole country. I am ever in awe when I come to the Old Cathedral, or as it’s formal name is: Basilica of St. Louis, King of France. Not only do we have one, but two Basilica’s here in this city, which is pretty awesome in it’s own right.
This church isn’t overly pretentious, but it’s simple in it’s splendor with beautiful marble and paintings that were given to the dioceses from Louis XVIII which make them that much more special to be given from a king to a city far from it’s borders. Plus if you go into the basement they have some historical items that were given to the city in the early years.

What a treasure this place is. The sole surviving building from the demolition of the waterfront in preparation for the building of the Arch, this is the site of the first Cathedral in St. Louis. Bishop DeBourg, Bishop of Louisiana and Florida, was consecrated here.
It’s a quiet site, as most tourists focus on the Arch or the Old Courthouse. The church itself is rather modestly decorated, and features, behind the altar, a replica of Velazquez’s Crucifixion of Christ.
The front vestibule has three panels of large-​type text history, so you’ll learn more than you ever knew about this site and about the history of Catholic St. Louis. I think even the non-​Catholic will be enriched by visiting. As for you Catholics, if you stop by, say a quick prayer for me :-)
It’s known as the Old Cathedral, but it was originally the «Basilica of St. Louis, King of France.»

One of the prettiest churches of this style in the country. The ceiling is made from horse hair and plaster. Take a tour of the museum for some wonderful St Louis history.

Seriously, no one has reviewed this yet? How is that even possible? I mean… it’s the first Catholic Cathedral in St. Louis… I think it’s the second oldest church west of the Mississippi (please don’t quote me on that, I mean it when I say I think that’s true).
Regardless of my lack of trivial knowledge positivity… this is a beautiful old church that still holds services and is, first and foremost, I believe, a very popular and beautiful place to get married.
Like I said, the church is old. well over 200 years old. The building smells old, but otherwise, it has been kept in impeccable condition. It is mostly white and the walls are covered in very old paintings. The windows are not stained glass, but that beautiful old curvy type clear glass (you know what I am talking about). The long story short, it’s beautiful and old and a place that all St. Louisans should enter at some point.
At it’s heart, sure it’s just a church. But there’s a ton of history here and considering the amazing location, it’s surprising how easily forgotten this church has come to be. The parking lot, yes, is very very small and can lead to problems if you are planning on having a huge wedding… but otherwise, what a beautiful venue… for church, a family Christmas mass, or a wedding…