Basilica of Saint Joseph Proto-Cathedral — Attraction in Bardstown

This is the first cathedral west of the Allegheny Mountains. It was the See of the Diocese of Bardstown, KY and covered most of the Midwest. Later, steamboat travel was increasing and Louisville was a growing city because of it. The Diocese See was moved to Louisville and the cathedral became a parish church The church is centuries old and they give tours. The church is a designated minor basilica. It is an official pilgrimage site for the Diocese...

This church has some striking history .. shared congregations. Just being open during the day .. there are individuals there that will walk you through the church and even point out its architectural details gives you an appreciation for the missions here of faith. I would suggest a quiet reverence, they do let you photograph (stained glass magnificient) and don't overlook the pipe...

We just kinda ran into this experience, but Margaret, our volunteer tour guide, was too sweet. So much history. Such a beautiful place. She even explained the difference between a Basilica and a Cathedral. Now I know. Bardstown is lovely. If you go, check out this...