History and Artistry of the Stained Glass Windows at St. Patrick's Cathedral in NYC

The History of St. Patrick's Cathedral's Stained Glass

As one of the most iconic churches in New York City, St. Patrick's Cathedral is easily recognizable by its soaring Gothic Revival spires that tower over Fifth Avenue. But venture inside, and your gaze will undoubtedly be drawn upwards once again - this time, to the cathedral's magnificent stained glass windows.

The Controversial Early Days

Construction on St. Patrick's Cathedral began in 1858, but the project was seen as a folly by many at the time. The enormous costs and ostentatious design of the unfinished cathedral made it unpopular with the public. However, the Catholic Church persisted with their vision.

By 1879, the main structure and twin spires were complete. Attention now turned to the cathedral's interior and the huge stained glass windows that would eventually fill the nave and transepts. The windows became another controversy - their cost sparking public outcry during a period of economic depression.

The Breathtaking Designs Emerge

In the early 20th century, plans for the cathedral's stained glass began in earnest. After considering American designs, they chose the Royal Bavarian Art Institute's Father Meyer for his classically-inspired ideas. Starting with the renowned rose window in 1915, Meyer's studio began creating over 7,000 square feet of stained glass windows.

The works of art they produced over the next 30 years incorporated intricate religious details and vivid colors. Scenes from the lives of saints and exquisite decorations were brought to life, backlit by natural light streaming through the windows.

St. Patrick's Cathedral's Famous Stained Glass Artworks

Many of the cathedral's stained glass creations have become world-famous in their own right. The Great Rose Window above the entrance captures attention with its glowing red hues and intricate stone-like tracery. Meanwhile, the Stuart and Choate Memorial Windows present bold blues and greens in grandiose displays.

Other highlights include the Blessed Virgin Mary Chapel's Glorification Window with its warm golds and gentle blues. Dramatic oranges and purples take center stage in the Return of the Prodigal Son Window. And deep burgundies and fragile greens combine in the dazzling St. Elizabeth of Hungary Window.

Continuing a Legacy

Today, the stained glass windows of St. Patrick's Cathedral are valued at over $400 million combined. They attract visitors from all backgrounds and faiths who flock to marvel at their impressive beauty and scale.

Through painstaking restoration and care, the cathedral ensures these magnificent windows remain intact for future generations. Their rich hues will continue to bathe the great Gothic Revival interior in mesmerizing, colorful light - just as their creators envisioned over a century ago.

FAQs

Why was there originally controversy over the stained glass windows?

There was public outcry over the high costs of the stained glass windows, especially during an economic depression at the turn of the 20th century. Many saw the windows as an excessively ostentatious expenditure.

How many stained glass windows are there at St. Patrick's Cathedral?

There are over 7,000 square feet of stained glass windows consisting of around 150 individual window sections and panels across the cathedral.

Who created the designs for the stained glass windows?

The designs were created by the Royal Bavarian Art Institute's Father Meyer starting in the early 1900s. His studio produced the stained glass artwork over the following 30 years.

Which stained glass window is the most famous?

The Great Rose Window situated above the cathedral's grand entrance is arguably the most famous section. It presents glowing red hues and intricate circular stone-like tracery.