Holy Name Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago, at 735 N State St in the Near North Side. Rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire and dedicated in 1875, it is a Gothic Revival church with pointed arches, stained glass and detailed woodwork. Step inside to see the bronze entrance doors, look up at the ceiling and take in the quiet between city streets. You can also attend Mass for its liturgy, homilies and choral music; check the schedule before you go.
A cathedral rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire
Holy Name Cathedral stands at 735 N State St in Chicago’s Near North Side. Its parish formed in 1843, and a chapel followed a few years later. The present cathedral was built after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed its predecessor. It was dedicated in 1875 and is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago.
The cathedral’s Gothic Revival design is visible from the street in its pointed forms, tower and pinnacles. The building measures 233 feet long, 126 feet wide and 210 feet high. Its bronze entrance doors, designed by Albert J. Friscia, are cast to resemble wooden planks. They offer a close-up detail before you enter.
Details to look for inside
Inside, look for the stained-glass windows and the woodwork overhead. Wooden tracery and the church’s tall arches draw the eye toward the ceiling. The interior fittings also carry a Tree of Life theme. Five galeros, the broad-brimmed hats of deceased cardinals who served the archdiocese, hang above: those of Cardinals Mundelein, Stritch, Meyer, Cody and Bernardin.
Other works include a hanging crucifix sculpted by Ivo Demetz and two pipe organs. The building’s artwork also reflects a later renovation in the 1960s, which added modern elements alongside its older architectural style. Take time to look around the main interior rather than focusing only on the windows or entrance.
Visiting for worship or quiet
Holy Name is an active Catholic cathedral, so visitors may come for Mass as well as to see the architecture. The liturgy, homilies and choir music are part of the experience for those attending a service. Booklets with reflections are available before Mass; arriving early gives you time to read them. Check the online presider schedule if you want to know who is celebrating the service.
If you are visiting outside Mass, an off-peak time can make it easier to sit quietly and take in the space. Treat the cathedral as a place of worship: photography and video are not permitted during Mass. The church has an accessible entrance, seating and restroom, as well as assisted listening devices. A free parking garage is listed among its amenities.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Holy Name Cathedral?
It is at 735 N State St in Chicago’s Near North Side.
When was Holy Name Cathedral built?
The current cathedral was built after its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and was dedicated in 1875.
Can you attend Mass at Holy Name Cathedral?
Yes. Check the cathedral’s online schedule for service times and the presider.
Can you take photos during Mass?
No. Photography and video are not permitted during Mass.
