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NYC Top Religious Sites Walking Tour, New York

NYC Top Religious Sites Walking Tour (Self Guided), New York

Other than high-risers, New York City is also famous for the variety of beautiful places of worship renowned for their architectural splendor. After 1830, inspired by a love for all things medieval imported from England, the Gothic style developed in the metropolis, as first illustrated by the Grace Church (1846). The best example of this style, however, remains St Patrick’s Cathedral, which covers the whole block between famous 5th and Madison avenues, making it one of the most visible symbols of the Catholic Church in the United States. Immaculate both outside and inside following restorations, the Cathedral’s marble, stained glass and gold fixtures are out of this world.

Walking a couple blocks from St. Patrick’s on Fifth Avenue, you’ll find the early 20th century Gothic-style St Thomas Church amongst towering skyscrapers. Though it holds many lovely elements, the stunning ‘reredos’ behind the altar prove to be the focal point, catching the eye as soon as you enter. The wide work of art – perhaps the largest in the world – displays recesses with 60 carved statues (representing Christ, saints and other figures), similar to those in England’s Winchester and Canterbury cathedrals.

Meanwhile, the Central Synagogue, restored after a 1999 fire, is considered NYC’s best example of Moorish-Islamic Revival architecture, and a visit to the elegant Temple Emanu-El provides the unique opportunity to see a Jewish landmark as large and spectacular as any European cathedral. The temple could, in fact, be easily mistaken for a Catholic one due to the stained-glass windows, but aside from depictions of biblical scenes, a close look will reveal the tribal signs of the houses of Israel.

To explore these and other top religious sites of the Big Apple, join us on this self-guided walking tour.
How it works: Download the app "ϳԹ: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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NYC Top Religious Sites Walking Tour Map

Guide Name: NYC Top Religious Sites Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » New York (See other walking tours in New York)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 7
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 7.0 Km or 4.3 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Temple Emanu-El
  • Central Synagogue
  • Saint Thomas Church
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral
  • St. Malachy Church - The Actors' Chapel
  • Holy Cross Church
  • Grace Church
1
Temple Emanu-El

1) Temple Emanu-El

Established in 1845 as New York's first Reform synagogue, this temple, which was completed in 1929, stands as one of the world's largest Jewish houses of worship. Embracing both long-standing Jewish families and newcomers to the city, it has become a cherished place of gathering for the Jewish community.

Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the temple boasts an impressive Romanesque design, stretching over 175 feet in length and standing at a towering height of 100 feet. Resembling a European cathedral, it can easily be mistaken for one, with its array of stained-glass windows portraying Jewish imagery. Notably, the wheel-like window on the facade showcases the traditional Magen David, the six-pointed Star of David.

Overall, the sanctuary boasts over 60 stained glass windows and a breathtaking glass and marble mosaic arch framing the bimah. Its magnificent ceiling, meticulously hand-painted with intricate gold details, adds to the grandeur.

To ensure a smooth visit, it is advisable to call in advance, as the synagogue occasionally closes for funerals and other events. However, services held on Fridays at 6 PM and Saturdays at 10:30 AM warmly welcome all who wish to attend.

Tip:
If you go to the side entrance (1 East 65th), get yourself buzzed in and tell them you want to tour the sanctuary. Since it's self-guided, it might be a good idea to download a self-guide brochure from their website. You may also wish to take an elevator to the small museum upstairs that features a permanent and rotating exhibits of Judaica – historical objects from the 14th-20th centuries, as well as art installations relating to Judaism.
2
Central Synagogue

2) Central Synagogue

Located at 55th Street and Lexington Avenue in Manhattan, the Central Synagogue stands as one of the oldest and most renowned synagogues in the United States. Completed in 1872, the structure showcases an impressive blend of architectural styles, standing as a testament to the rich cultural influences that shaped New York City's architectural landscape during the late 19th century.

The exterior boasts a distinctive Moorish Revival design, characterized by intricate patterns, ornate domes, and elaborate arches. The building's façade features a vibrant blend of red brick and terra cotta, with beautiful floral and geometric motifs adorning its surfaces.

One of the most breathtaking features is the awe-inspiring sanctuary. As you step inside, your eyes are immediately drawn to the soaring, hand-painted ceiling adorned with vivid celestial scenes. The space is illuminated by a stunning array of stained glass windows that bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a truly ethereal ambiance.

The sanctuary also boasts intricately carved wooden furnishings, including the elaborately designed ark that houses the Torah scrolls. The bimah, a raised platform from which prayers are led, stands as a focal point in the room, adorned with exquisite craftsmanship.

In addition to its main sanctuary, Central Synagogue houses various smaller chapels and rooms, each showcasing unique architectural details and offering spaces for prayer, study, and communal gatherings.

Whether you are an admirer of architectural wonders, a person of faith, or someone curious about the cultural heritage of New York City, a visit to Central Synagogue is essential.
3
Saint Thomas Church

3) Saint Thomas Church

The Saint Thomas Church is an Episcopal parish church located in the heart of New York City. It is one of the few churches where the old Anglican choral tradition is still preserved.

Previously, the congregation of Saint Thomas's worshiped in three other locations before the present one was built. Designed by architects Ralph Adams Cram and Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue in High Gothic style, featuring plain limestone exterior and sandstone interior, the current church was built between 1911 and 1916 looking absolutely fantastic among the towering skyscrapers. The intricate stonework on the reredos – white carved screens behind the altar and interesting carvings on the choir stalls showing “modern” inventions like the radio and telephone – was done be sculptor Lee Laurie, while the fine stained glass windows were created by English artist, James Hunphries Hogan, of Powell and Sons (Whitefriars) Ltd. of London.

Music is an important part of worship and liturgy at Saint Thomas's, in large part thanks to the design offering excellent acoustics, as well as the three old and one new incredible Dobson pipe organ (worth $11 million) added in 2008. There are free organ recitals most Sundays, the sound of which is profoundly moving. The church's choir performs traditional Anglican Evensong, a 45 minute service of music by young boys aged between 8 and 13. This choir is supported by the Saint Thomas choir school that was founded by the parish in 1919 and is one of four remaining choir schools in the world.

While everyone goes to check out Saint Patrick's, and quite rightly so, you still might be cheating yourself if you don’t visit Saint Thomas's, which is just a few blocks away. Its beautiful altar area, stained glass and ceiling are absolutely worth a look, and will leave you in awe. Highly recommended!
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
4
St. Patrick's Cathedral

4) St. Patrick's Cathedral (must see)

There are two Saint Patrick's Cathedrals in New York City. The construction of New Saint Patrick's Cathedral was started in 1858 to accommodate the growing Archdiocese of New York and to replace Saint Patrick's Old Cathedral, built in 1815. New Saint Patrick's is the enormous Gothic Revival edifice erected between 50th and 51st Streets on Madison Avenue in Manhattan. It is the seat of the Archbishop of New York. Located directly across from Rockefeller Center, it was designed by architect James Renwick, Jr., and inaugurated in 1879.

The Midtown Cathedral is triumphantly vertical and Gothic. It is clad in marble. It has dozens of stained glass windows encased in pointed arches topped by triangular pediments. It is 332 feet long and the transepts are 174 feet wide. Soaring spires flank the enormous bronze entrance doors. The spires reach a height of 330 feet.

Inside is a nave with a center aisle and two side aisles. Thirty-two marble columns separate the center and side aisles. Above the center aisle are groin vaults supported by ribs and bosses. There are 12 chapels in the side aisles. The interior is designed for a seating capacity of 2,400. There are 300 wooden pews.

The high altar is a replacement. The original was moved to Fordham University Church in the Bronx. The current altar is made of grey-white Italian marble covered with a bronze canopy or baldachin. There is no tabernacle or altar screen. The baldachin is topped by a statue of Christ the King flanked by angels and pinnacles.

The New Saint Patrick's Cathedral is a New York City designated landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
5
St. Malachy Church - The Actors' Chapel

5) St. Malachy Church - The Actors' Chapel

Nestled amidst the bustling theaters of Broadway, mere steps away from Times Square, lies Saint Malachy's Church. In the midst of towering buildings, this Catholic church may easily go unnoticed if one isn't attentive. However, in the heart of New York City, it is better known as the Actor's Chapel, having been standing before the Theater District settled in the area. As a result, it became a place of worship for actors, dancers, and musicians.

To cater to the unique needs of the entertainment community, Monsignor Edward F. Leonard, the pastor, had the Chapel of Saint Genesius, also known as the "Actors' Chapel", constructed below the main church in 1920. He sought special permission from the Archbishop of New York to hold Masses at 4 AM, despite it being banned by canon law at the time. This timing accommodated the non-standard schedules of theater workers, ensuring convenience in their worship.

Saint Malachy's quickly became a prominent place of worship for those in the entertainment industry. Its fame reached a global scale when it hosted the funeral of Rudolph Valentino and the wedding of Douglas Fairbanks Jr. to Joan Crawford. Celebrities and theater enthusiasts alike frequented the church, and the nearby presence of Madison Square Garden during that era ensured a constant stream of visitors. At its peak in the late 1960s, the church attracted an average monthly attendance of around 16,000 people. The church's chimes would melodiously play the tune "There's No Business Like Show Business."

Since March 2018, Rev. John F. Fraser has taken on the role of pastor, carrying forward the vision of serving not only the local community but also the entertainment industry. Saint Malachy's Parish, with its distinctive mix of local parishioners, tourists, and professionals from the performing arts, continues to embody a welcoming haven where "Catholics can always come home". Regardless of one's background, all are embraced and invited to be a part of this inclusive community.
6
Holy Cross Church

6) Holy Cross Church

Situated on 42nd Street, directly across from the Port Authority Terminal, the Roman Catholic Holy Cross Church immediately catches your attention with its impressive Italianate Gothic style, featuring a red brick facade adorned with two towers. Designed by Henry Engelbert, it offers a bit of "calmness in the storm of the Big City". Masses are traditionally celebrated with the accompaniment of choral music, with hymns sung in both English and Spanish.

Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a captivating blend of architectural styles, with elements of Georgian, Classical, Romanesque, and Byzantine influences. Wooden benches provide seating, while nine stained glass windows adorn both the lower and upper levels. While the later were imported from Munich, the mosaics below the Dome were designed by the renowned Louis Comfort Tiffany. Meanwhile, the altar area takes on a unique one-half oval shape, and statues grace the walls.

The church is also called “Father Duffy’s church” after its most popular pastor, Reverend Francis P. Duffy, who was decorated for serving as chaplain of the 69th New York regiment that fought in World War I.
7
Grace Church

7) Grace Church

Grace Church, located in Manhattan, is an esteemed parish church with a rich historical significance, often hailed as one of the city's most treasured landmarks. Designed by the prodigious architect James Renwick Jr., renowned for his work on Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Grace Church stands as a splendid example of French Gothic Revival architecture. Remarkably, Renwick was only 23 years old when he undertook this project, marking it as his inaugural major commission.

"A solace for the spirit and a feast for the eyes", Grace Church holds the esteemed title of a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its architectural importance and its place in New York City's storied history. The entire complex, including the church, rectory, and church houses, also holds the designation of a New York City landmark since 1966 and 1977. Within the church's walls, visitors are treated to breathtaking stained glass windows and a mosaic floor that captivate the eye with their exquisite beauty.

Upon entering, be sure to grab a tour pamphlet for a self-guided 15-minute tour. This informative resource provides a wealth of historical insights and intriguing details that enhance your appreciation of the church's remarkable features, allowing you to notice intricacies that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. If you happen to visit on a Thursday afternoon, you may have the delightful opportunity to witness a Bach organ concert in progress. Simply find a seat in one of the pews and savor the enchanting melodies that fill the air. Otherwise, if time permits, sit down and take in the serenity and calm before launching out again to join the rat race outside.

Adding to the church's allure is its association with a colorful event in history. In 1863, P.T. Barnum, the founder of the renowned Barnum & Bailey Circus and portrayed by Hugh Jackman in the movie "The Greatest Showman," chose Grace Church as the venue for the wedding of his famous midget, General Tom Thumb. Undoubtedly, it was a spectacle to behold and a testament to the church's timeless allure.

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