St. Paul cathedral and Minneapolis basilica are different, but linked by more than just faith

The Cathedral of St. Paul and the Basilica of St. Mary serve as vital religious and cultural landmarks in Minnesota, each representing unique architectural styles while being co-cathedrals of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Construction of the Cathedral began in 1906 and was completed in 1915, while the Basilica was finished a year earlier in 1914.

The Cathedral embodies High Renaissance design, reminiscent of the works of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, whereas the Basilica features a more Baroque style, tailored for the local context. Both structures were designed by Emmanuel Louis Masqueray, a noted architect who popularized the Beaux Arts style in America. The article provides insights into the interior of each church, where visitors can experience a rich tapestry of 16th-century Christian art and architecture. It also highlights the basilica’s nave, which spans 82 feet, surpassing that of St. Peter’s in Rome by two feet.

This comparison serves to underscore the significance of these structures not just in Minnesota but also in the broader context of religious architecture. Ultimately, the piece emphasizes the enduring legacy of these churches and their role in the community.