Basilica Restore the Light Papal Endorsement - 2001

Baltimore Basilica - Restore the Light - Endorsements
Baltimore, Maryland

Restoration Plan
The Basilica of the Assumption was dedicated on May 31, 1821 as one of the most architecturally original cathedrals in the world and heralded a new movement in cathedral building. Today, it is considered one of the finest 19th Century buildings in the world and Latrobes masterpiece.

Among the most extraordinary features of the Basilica is the Great Dome that was originally a source of light together with original windows of plain glass. Twenty-four skylights ringed the outer dome providing natural light for the entire building. Light filtered indirectly through the oculus of the inner dome creating what Latrobe called lumiere mysterieuese. In 1904, the exterior dome was covered with gold leaf which lasted for 20 years. It was subsequently replaced by copper. By 1943, the deteriorating window frames and heavy glass of the outer dome had to be removed and the opening was closed.

One of the major objectives of the restoration plan is to restore the skylights in accord with Latrobes original design. In addition, the other major highlights of the cathedral are its Byzantine towers, its portico, its extraordinary crypt built for the Archbishops of Baltimore, French bells and other interior spaces.

The Basilica of the Assumption Historic Trust has retained a master restoration team. The team is comprised of John G. Waite Associates, the firm which was involved in the restoration of Mt. Vernon, the Rotunda at the University of Virginia, Monticello, and other historic places and early 19th Century historic buildings in the United States as well as Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and Planners, who led, among other significant projects, the monumental efforts to restore Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration in Hoboken, N.J. and Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

Key features of the preservation will include restoring the skylights in accord with their original design, restoring the roof, providing better access to the Basilica lighting, adjusting liturgical requirements, especially in the sanctuary area, as well as heating, plumbing, air conditioning and other essential features of the Basilica.

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Nonprofits & Activism

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• Basilica
• Baltimore
• Cathedral
• Assumption
• Historic
• Preservation
• John
• Carroll
• Cardinal
• Keeler
• Punch
• Skylight
• Relig