Toward the end of the 20th century, America’s first cathedral, the Baltimore Basilica, fell on hard times. Through years of inattention, the once glorious house of worship grew dim and dirty. The dark days of the church (officially the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) ended in November 2007 after a two-year renovation.
Completed in 1821, the cathedral’s neoclassical architecture, like that of many structures in the new federal city of Washington, symbolizes a forward-looking America. Its most striking feature, a soaring dome with 24 skylights, represents the light of religious freedom. Over time the skylights were either closed or removed, leaving visitors quite literally in the dark. In addition to the refurbishment of all skylights, the renovation returned translucent glass to other windows that had been replaced with stained glass. The construction brought to light previously unknown frescos of the four Gospel writers hidden inside hollow panels. Now restored, these artworks adorn the cathedral walls.
Other enhancements include a restored sanctuary, a gift shop, public access to the crypt and a new museum in the lower sacristy. Finally, in the most telling sign of a new era for the Basilica, satellite technology now controls the chiming of the bells.
Tours and Hours
The Basilica is open from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily. Volunteers lead free tours at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sunday at approximately noon, following the 10:45 a.m. Mass. Tours last about 45 minutes. For more information, call 410-727-3565.Mass Schedule
Weekdays: 7:30 a.m. and 12:10 p.m.Saturday: 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (Vigil for Sunday)
Sunday: 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m. (Latin), 10:45 a.m. (Choir), 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Holy Days: 7:30 a.m., 12:10 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.