Architecture Behind Cathedral of St. John the Divine – New York, NY: An In-Depth Exploration

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York, NY, stands as one of the largest cathedrals in the world. Located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, it is well-known for its impressive Gothic architecture and nickname, “St. John the Unfinished,” due to its ongoing construction. This grand structure not only serves as a place of worship but also as a significant cultural hub in the city.

George Lewis Heins and Christopher Grant LaFarge, designers renowned for their work on the New York City subway, won the competition in 1888 to design this magnificent cathedral. Their vision blends Gothic and Romanesque styles, creating a unique architectural marvel.

The intricate facade includes sculptures depicting the apocalyptic visions of St. John, including scenes like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, made by British artist Simon Verity from 1988 to 1997.

Another intriguing detail is the attempt to complete the cathedral’s towers forty years ago. Despite efforts, these towers remain unfinished, reinforcing the nickname “St. John the Unfinished” and adding to the cathedral’s mysterious charm. Read more about the history and architecture of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine.

Historical Context

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine has a rich history beginning in the late 19th century, marked by various phases of construction and design changes. This section looks at the foundational efforts and the architectural transformations over time.

Foundation and Construction

In 1888, George Lewis Heins and Christopher Grant LaFarge won the design competition for the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. The Episcopal Church needed a grand structure, and their Romanesque design was selected. Foundation work began shortly after their selection.

Construction was slow. The first stone was laid in 1892. By 1911, Ralph Adams Cram took over as the architect, transitioning the style to Gothic Revival. His vision included pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, changing the cathedral’s appearance significantly.

Bishop Henry Codman Potter was pivotal in the early phases, pushing for the cathedral’s creation. He envisioned it as a monumental addition to New York City. Despite ongoing efforts, construction halted multiple times due to funding and wars. The cathedral remains incomplete, earning it the nickname “St. John the Unfinished.”

Architectural Evolution

The architecture changed notably throughout its history. Christopher Grant LaFarge and George Lewis Heins’ initial Romanesque design featured solid, heavy stone structures. This style was abandoned when Ralph Adams Cram introduced Gothic Revival elements.

Crams’ architecture included intricate stone carvings, tall spires, and large, stained glass windows. This shift brought new challenges, especially in the engineering of strong support structures like flying buttresses. These elements required precise craftsmanship and materials.

One of the most significant evolutions occurred in the 1920s with the completion of the nave and crossing. This phase included the installation of the largest rose window in the U.S., measuring 40 feet in diameter.

The balance between old and new designs is evident in the current structure. The unfinished towers are a testament to the ongoing architectural journey.

Architectural Details

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine showcases a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic and Romanesque influences. Its stained glass windows and artworks are remarkable, and both the exterior and interior are rich with symbolic elements.

Gothic and Romanesque Features

The Cathedral’s design incorporates Gothic and Romanesque elements. Originally designed by George Lewis Heins and Christopher Grant LaFarge, it was intended to follow a Romanesque-Byzantine style. Later, Ralph Adams Cram adapted the design to a French Gothic style, which can be seen in the pointed arches and tall, narrow windows.

The massive columns and high vaulted ceilings reflect the Gothic style’s emphasis on verticality and light. These features create a sense of grandeur and awe. The building also includes buttresses and intricate stone carvings typical of Gothic architecture.

Stained Glass and Artwork

The stained glass windows of St. John the Divine are a highlight. They feature scenes from biblical stories and the lives of saints. One notable window is the Rose Window located in the western façade, made up of thousands of pieces of colorful glass.

Inside, the cathedral’s artwork includes sculptures, mosaics, and paintings. Many of these pieces were created by renowned artists. Notable among these is the Keith Haring altarpiece, which was one of his last works and is a striking modern addition to the cathedral’s art collection.

Exterior and Interior Symbolism

The cathedral’s exterior is adorned with symbolic sculptures. The Portal of Paradise, the main entrance, features sculptures depicting biblical scenes and figures, including St. John standing above the four horsemen of the apocalypse. These carvings were designed by British artist Simon Verity.

Inside, the cathedral is filled with symbols. The nave and the side chapels are decorated with motifs representing various Christian themes. The use of light and shadow in the interior design enhances the spiritual atmosphere, guiding visitors through a journey of contemplation and reverence.

Cathedral as a Cultural Hub

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York serves as a vibrant center for art, music, and community activities, making it a focal point of cultural life in the city. It continuously hosts wide-ranging events that attract visitors from various backgrounds.

Art Exhibitions and Artists

The Cathedral frequently hosts art exhibitions, showcasing works from emerging and well-known artists. These exhibitions often feature diverse art forms, such as paintings, sculptures, and installations.

The Great Bronze Doors and the seven Chapels of the Tongues are among the notable architectural elements that often highlight these artistic displays.

Past exhibitions have included works that engage with spiritual themes or social issues, providing a reflective space for visitors. Artists from different cultural backgrounds participate, making it a hub of artistic diversity in Manhattan.

Concerts and Public Events

Concerts are a significant part of the Cathedral’s cultural offerings. The Nave serves as a grand venue for musical performances ranging from classical concerts to modern symphonies.

Renowned musicians and orchestras frequently perform, attracting large audiences.

Public events also include performances by choirs, organ recitals, and seasonal celebrations such as Christmas and Easter concerts. These events highlight the Cathedral’s commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural scene in New York City.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

The Cathedral offers numerous educational programs aimed at engaging the community. These include guided tours that explore the building’s history, architecture, and artwork.

Workshops and lectures on various topics are also common, providing educational enrichment for all ages.

Community engagement is furthered through events tailored for local residents, such as family days and service initiatives. These programs not only educate but also foster a sense of community, making the Cathedral a unifying space for diverse groups.

Visitor Information

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine offers a variety of activities and programs for visitors. Planning your visit and engaging in tours and programs can enhance your experience and provide a deeper understanding of this historic site.

Planning Your Visit

To visit the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, it is essential to know the hours of operation and admission details. The Cathedral is generally open every day, except for major holidays.

Weekdays: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Weekends: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Admission for general entry is typically on a donation basis, but certain special areas and tours may have fixed ticket prices.

It’s recommended to check the official website or call ahead for the latest information on admission and hours, especially during special events or closures.

The Cathedral offers a range of worship services throughout the week, which visitors are welcome to attend.

Tours and Programs

The Cathedral offers multiple tours and programs.

One of these is the Vertical Tour, which takes visitors to the summit of the Cathedral for stunning city views. This tour is available several times a week and requires a separate ticket.

The tickets cost $20 for adults and $18 for students and seniors.

Another popular event is the Open House New York (OHNY) Weekend. This annual event offers exclusive tours and behind-the-scenes looks at areas normally restricted to the public.

Educational programs and workshops are also available, catering to different age groups and interests. These programs aim to educate visitors about the Cathedral’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.

For a complete list of tours and programs, as well as ticket prices and availability, visit the official website.