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Asheville, North Carolina: The Basilica of Saint Lawrence

About the Basilica of St. Lawrence in Asheville:

Basilica of St. Stephen in Asheville, N.C.
Photo courtesy Basilica of St. Lawrence, Asheville

One of the most beautiful churches in the U.S., the Basilica of St. Lawrence was designed by the famous architect Rafael Gusastavino Moreno (1842-1908).  Originally from Spain, he was noted for using a tile system to form domes in many buildings in the U.S. including Philadelphia’s St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church, the famous oyster bar in Grand Central Station in New York City, Union Station in Pittsburgh. and the Nebraska State Capitol, among others.  The Basilica of Saint Lawrence was his final work, and also where you will find his tomb.  You can read more about him here.

Pope John Paul II elevated the status of the church to minor basilica in 1993. The only basilica in western North Carolina, the dome of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence has a span of 58 by 82 feet and is reputed to be the largest freestanding, elliptical dome in North America. Except for the foundation and brick walls, the construction method is traditional Catalan, with notable examples being the dome and stairs.

Complimentary Guided Tours are available, you can schedule one on their website.  There are also self-guided tours with a brochure to help guide you. Tours are free but donations are very much appreciated.

There is also an excellent gift shop in the Basilica.

In addition to weekend and daily Masses, certain days also offer Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Rosary, Divine Mercy, Reconciliation, Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary & Benediction.

 

Finding the Basilica of St. Lawrence in Asheville, N.C.

The Basilica  is located in the Downtown Asheville Historic District.

Address: 97 Haywood Street Asheville, NC 28801   Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1850, Asheville, NC 28802

Tel: +1 (828) 252-6042

Click here for the official website of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence in Asheville, N.C.

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