Standing at the top of Washington's most commanding hill, this soaring Gothic cathedral extends almost the length of two football fields and pierces the city's skyline 600 feet above the Potomac.
The building's grandeur is evidenced in its stunning features: soaring vaulting, sparkling stained glass windows, and intricate carvings. The Space Window contains a piece of lunar rock presented to the Cathedral by the astronauts of Apollo XI. Fanciful gargoyles and dramatic sculpture adorn the exterior.
Standing at the top of Washington's most commanding hill, this soaring Gothic cathedral extends almost the length of two football fields and pierces the city's skyline 600 feet above the Potomac.
The building's grandeur is evidenced in its stunning features: soaring vaulting, sparkling stained glass windows, and intricate carvings. The Space Window contains a piece of lunar rock presented to the Cathedral by the astronauts of Apollo XI. Fanciful gargoyles and dramatic sculpture adorn the exterior.
Although a Christian church, the National Cathedral welcomes persons of all faiths and is frequently the site of interfaith and ecumenical services. Services of celebration for the swearing in of a president, thanksgiving for the release of hostages, and mourning for the death of a leader are examples of the Cathedral's service as spiritual home for the nation.Â
The Cathedral offers programs on spirituality, occasional special exhibits, specialty tours, lectures, monthly labyrinth, organ demonstrations, and musical events. Highlights tours are offered daily. Touring groups must have reservations. The Bishop's Garden, on the Cathedral grounds, is a medieval-styled walled garden with ancient boxwoods, herbs, and a rose garden.
For more information: www.nationalcathedral.org
