We are the world's sixth-largest Cathedral, a national treasure showcasing beautiful architecture.
Experience the Wonder
Built over 83 years of construction, Washington National Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece designed to point eyes and hearts toward things above. It’s a thoroughly American interpretation of 14th Century English Gothic, assembled using Old World techniques to nurture a mission for the 21st Century.
The dream of a National Cathedral is as old as the nation itself, a "great church for national purposes."
Where History Comes Alive
George Washington and Maj. Pierre L’Enfant cast the original vision for a unifying “great church for national purposes” in the early days of the republic, though it was another century before the first stones were set. As a house of prayer for all people, the Cathedral’s walls are strong enough to contain the emotions of the country at times of great joy and great sorrow.
Cathedrals are sometimes finished, but are rarely ever completed.
Living Stones in Each Generation
A rare 2011 earthquake rattled the stones of the Cathedral, causing $34 million in damage and returning scaffolding to the highest parts of the building. Utilizing both cutting-edge technology and medieval techniques, we are returning the Cathedral to its pristine glory, block by block. But we’ll need your help to finish the job.
