The cathedral is famous for its De Rosen mosaics, a replica of Lorenzo Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, two labyrinths, stained glass windows, one of the seven Keith Haring altarpieces dedicated to AIDS victims, and medieval and contemporary furniture. These features make the cathedral a unique place to visit, offering a blend of historical and contemporary art and architecture.
The cathedral contains 677m² of stained glass, featuring over 1100 characters ranging from Adam and Eve to Albert Einstein. These 32 windows or groups of windows, dating from 1930 to 1966, were designed by American Charles Connick and his Boston studio. The cathedral also contains rose windows made by Gabriel Loire, including the series representing John Glenn, Thurgood Marshall, Jane Addams, Robert Frost, and Einstein.
The cathedral's carillon is a gift from Dr. Nathaniel T. Coulson, a San Francisco dentist and real estate agent originally from Cornwall. The Carillon consists of forty-four bronze bells, cast and tuned at the Gillett & Johnston foundry in England in 1938. The bells have rung to mark a number of significant events, including D-Day and the centenary of San Francisco's Cable Cars.
History & Anthropology
1100 California Street, San Francisco
No exhibitions in Grace Cathedral have been found.
Grace Cathedral has 1 rating.
Grace Cathedral, located in San Francisco, is a notable Episcopal church that also serves as a cultural and artistic landmark. Visitors often comment on its impressive Gothic-style architecture, with many appreciating the intricate details of the building's exterior and interior. The cathedral's stained glass windows and labyrinths are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Many reviewers praise the peaceful and serene atmosphere inside the cathedral, finding it a welcome respite from the bustling city outside. The church's art installations, including the AIDS Memorial Chapel and Keith Haring altarpiece, are often cited as thought-provoking and moving.
Some visitors note the cathedral's various musical events and concerts, which are generally well-received. The guided tours, when available, are considered informative and enhance the overall experience for many.
On the downside, a few reviewers mention that parking can be challenging in the area, and some find the suggested donation for entry a bit high. Additionally, a small number of visitors feel that the cathedral, while impressive, may not be as ornate or grand as some European counterparts.
Overall, Grace Cathedral is generally viewed as a worthwhile visit for those interested in architecture, art, or seeking a moment of tranquility in San Francisco. It's appreciated both as a place of worship and as a cultural institution.
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