description Westminster Cathedral Overview
Westminster Cathedral stands as London’s largest Catholic church. Constructed between 1895 and 1903, its distinctive Neo-Byzantine design incorporates extensive use of Italian marble. The cathedral is notable for its scale, interior mosaics, and role as the mother church for Catholics in England and Wales. It serves a diverse congregation and welcomes visitors interested in architectural history and religious art.
help Westminster Cathedral FAQ
Is Westminster Cathedral the same building as Westminster Abbey?
No. Westminster Cathedral is the principal Roman Catholic cathedral in England and Wales, while Westminster Abbey is a separate Church of England royal church nearby. The cathedral is recognizable by its striped brickwork and tall campanile.
Why does Westminster Cathedral have an unfinished-looking interior?
Architect John Francis Bentley designed large interior surfaces to receive mosaics over time. Decoration has proceeded gradually, leaving a striking contrast between completed mosaic chapels and areas of exposed brick.
What architectural style is Westminster Cathedral?
It is Neo-Byzantine rather than Gothic, drawing on early Christian and Byzantine churches. Its domes, marble revetments, mosaics, and red-and-white striped exterior distinguish it from Westminster Abbey.
Who is buried in Westminster Cathedral?
The cathedral contains the tombs of several Archbishops of Westminster, including Cardinal Herbert Vaughan, who founded the project. It also preserves relics associated with the English Catholic martyr Saint John Southworth.
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