One of the largest cathedrals in the world, the National Cathedral is more than an Episcopal cathedral; it is a national shrine. Being the site of several significant memorial services, the cathedral lives up to its role of a ‘spiritual home for the nation’. The final Sunday sermon delivered by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is only one among the many notable historic moments that the cathedral has witnessed. The flying buttresses, gargoyles, crypts, an enormous vaulted ceiling and intimate chapels all contribute to this architectural marvel. Furthermore, the curving walkways, well-kept hedges and spacious lawns invite exploration. When in Washington, a visit to this national treasure simply cannot be missed.
This basilica, one of the largest Roman Catholic churches in the Western Hemisphere, was dedicated in 1959. The architecture of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is a mix of Romanesque and Byzantine styles. The Great Upper Church boasts fantastic mosaics, stained glass windows and individual chapels. The lower level Crypt Church is smaller and darker, but equally impressive in atmosphere and ornamentation. The basilica has a bookstore, gift shop and cafeteria.
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Although George Washington was a member of Truro Church in his hometown of Mount Vernon, he reserved a family pew at Christ Church. This bench has been preserved in its original place in his honor. Confederate General Robert E. Lee, an Alexandria native, worshiped at this parish all his life. Built in 1773, the architectural marvel has been restored to its authentic Georgian style. An unique Palladian window and tablets, hand-lettered by Colonial James Wren, and a towering minaret are special features of the building. It has played an important role in shaping history, the New Year's of 1942 will always be remembered, when Prime Minister Winston Churchill and President Franklin Roosevelt attended a peace gathering during World War II.
Considered as a noteworthy landmark in the city, Washington D.C. Temple Visitors' Center is nestled amid the sweeping, windswept terrains of Kensington. Awash in pristine white, this religious attraction is not only steeped in a long-standing spiritual history but also stands as a symbol of splendid architecture. The well-manicured lush garden surrounding the structure enhances its glorious aesthetics. Its towering steeple gives the illusion of cutting the sky and the resplendent Washington D.C. Temple Visitors' Center is a sight to behold when it is illuminated at night.
