 
St. Matthew's Cathedral
NPS Photo
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St. Matthew's Cathedral is one of the most impressive houses of worship in the United
States. The red brick church, designed by C. Grant La Farge in 1893, has eclectic features
inspired by Italian churches. The simplicity of the exterior contrasts with the rich decorations of
the interior. Its imposing copper ribbed dome is one of the visual focal points of the Washington
skyline. The Roman Catholic parish of St. Matthew's was established in 1839 to relieve the
overcrowding at St. Patrick's Church. On July 22, 1939, Pope Pius XII announced that the
archdiocese of Washington was established and that St. Matthew's was its cathedral. In 1947
Washington was made an independent archdiocese, and St. Matthew's continues as a
cathedral. The cathedral has been the site of a number of important services, most notably the
funeral of President John F. Kennedy on November 25, 1963. Today a memorial marks the location of
Kennedy's casket during the service. Pope John Paul II celebrated mass at St. Matthew's in
1979.
St. Matthew's Cathedral is located at 1735 Rhode Island Ave., NW. It is open to the public for
services. For more information call 202/347-3215. Metro stop: Farragut North
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