Basilica of St. Louis, King of France
Archdiocese of St. Louis·Catholic·United States
The Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, formerly the Cathedral of Saint Louis and colloquially known as the Old Cathedral, is a significant Catholic church in St. Louis, Missouri. It holds the distinction of being the first cathedral west of the Mississippi River and played a crucial role as the sole parish church in St. Louis until 1844. Its historical importance is underscored by its preservation amidst the development of Gateway Arch National Park.
Key Facts
- ›Established as the first Catholic church west of the Mississippi River.
- ›The current structure was built between 1831 and 1834.
- ›It was the only parish church in St. Louis until 1844.
- ›Designated as a basilica by Pope John XXIII in 1961.
- ›Located near the historic riverfront and surrounded by Gateway Arch National Park.
- ›Known for its Greek Revival architectural style and marble altars.
- First Cathedral West of the Mississippi River
- Marble Altars
- Painting of Saint Louis Venerating the Crown of Thorns
- Copy of "Crucifixion" By Diego VeláZquez
- Latin and Hebrew Inscriptions Above the Entrance
- Burial Vault of Bishop Joseph Rosati
Laveille and Morton
About Basilica of St. Louis, King of France
Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France
The Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, historically known as the Cathedral of Saint Louis and colloquially as the Old Cathedral, stands as a significant Catholic church in St. Louis, Missouri. Its foundational importance is marked by its status as the first cathedral established west of the Mississippi River, and it served as the exclusive parish church for the city of St. Louis until 1844. The current edifice, constructed between 1831 and 1834, is situated near the city's historic riverfront and is notably preserved within the boundaries of Gateway Arch National Park.
History and Construction
The origins of Catholic presence on this site trace back to the establishment of St. Louis. An initial log house, consecrated in 1770, served as the earliest structure. This was succeeded by a brick building ordered by Bishop Louis William Valentine Dubourg, designed by Gabriel Paul, with construction commencing in 1818. The present church was initiated by Bishop Joseph Rosati, the first bishop of the newly established Diocese of St. Louis in 1826, to accommodate the growing population. The architectural firm Laveille and Morton, among the earliest west of the Mississippi north of New Orleans, designed and built the church, completing it by late 1834. It was consecrated on October 26, 1834. Following the elevation of the Diocese of St. Louis to an archdiocese in 1847, the cathedral became a center for charitable work, hosting an early chapter of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
Designation and Modern Role
In 1961, Pope John XXIII bestowed upon the church the title of basilica, recognizing its historical significance, leading to its current name. Although a larger cathedral was consecrated in 1914 to serve as the archdiocesan seat, the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France continues its function as a personal parish church. It is a popular venue for wedding ceremonies and a significant tourist destination, owing to its historical importance and its scenic location adjacent to the Gateway Arch.
Architectural Features and Artifacts
The basilica is designed in the Greek Revival style and is distinguished by its marble altars. It houses a painting of Saint Louis venerating the Crown of Thorns, a gift from Louis XVIII of France, and a faithful copy of Diego Velázquez's "Crucifixion." The main entrance bears inscriptions in Latin and Hebrew. Bishop Joseph Rosati is interred in a vault beneath the sanctuary. Recent renovations have focused on preserving its historical integrity while upgrading its facilities.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France?
The Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France holds historical significance as the first Catholic church established west of the Mississippi River. It also served as the sole parish church in St. Louis until 1844, making it a foundational religious institution in the city's early development.
When was the current structure of the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France built?
The current structure of the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France was constructed between 1831 and 1834. The cornerstone was laid on August 1, 1831, and the cathedral was consecrated on October 26, 1834.
What is the architectural style of the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France?
The church is built in the Greek Revival style. It is noted for its marble altars and decorative elements.
Is the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France part of Gateway Arch National Park?
While the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France is located near the historic riverfront and surrounded by Gateway Arch National Park, it is not part of the park itself. It was intentionally preserved during the park's development due to its historical importance.
What notable artifacts or features are found within the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France?
The basilica features marble altars and a painting of Saint Louis venerating the Crown of Thorns, a gift from Louis XVIII. An accurate copy of Diego Velázquez's 'Crucifixion' painting is also installed. Inscriptions in Latin and Hebrew are present above the main entrance.
Who is interred within the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France?
Bishop Joseph Rosati, who ordered the construction of the church, is interred in a vault beneath the sanctuary. The original cemetery associated with the church also held burials of many St. Louis founders.
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