Page 146 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Washington, DC

144  W ASHINGT ON , DC AREA B Y AREA

a Washington National Cathedral

The building of the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul (its
official name) began in 1907 and was completed in 1990. The world’s
sixth-largest cathedral, it dominates the city’s skyline and measures
301 ft (95 m) from grade to the top of the central tower and 518 ft
(158 m) in length – almost the length of two soccer fields. Built with
Indiana limestone, the Washington National Cathedral boasts
elements typical of Gothic religious architecture, such as soaring
vaulting, stained-glass windows, and intricate carvings. The exterior
features fanciful gargoyles and dramatic sculpture. The cathedral has
been the location of funeral and memorial services for several US
presidents. Extensive renovations continue on Exterior
some parts of the cathedral following A masterpiece of Gothic-
an earthquake in 2011. style architecture, the
towers of the cathedral
dominate the skyline.

. Ex Nihilo
Above the center portal is Ex Nihilo by
Frederick Hart. It depicts men and women
emerging from the swirling background.

Main Entrance
Three huge Gothic arches dominate
the west facade, with pierced bronze
gates depicting stories from the
book of Genesis.

KEY
1 George Washington Bay
2 Pilgrim Observation Gallery
3 The pinnacles on the cathedral Space Window
towers are decorated with leaf- Mankind’s achievements in science
shaped ornaments and topped and technology are commemorated
by elaborately carved finials. in this window with the flight of Apollo
11 and a piece of moon rock.

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