The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral — Attraction in New York

When I, Salvatore, was born in 1932, it was on the fifth floor of a building just 200 feet to the right of this picture, at 250 Mulberry St. I shared my bed with my oldest sister Elizabeth, my second oldest sister,Vicenza, but we called her Jeannie, and my older, brother Aniello who we all called Al, and they all called me “junior”. At two years old, I contracted double Pneumonia and it created a big hearing problem for me all the rest of my life, but I wouldn’t change any of this, even my hearing. When I reached five years old, I began to go daily with my 3 siblings to this Church, St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, every morning at 7am, go in at the rear door where the metal 10’ high fence has an opening, hear mass, and then receive Holy Communion. We would then walk up the five flights to have breakfast and then off to school. There were always a couple of disheveled men sleeping on the side of the steps as we went up and then down, going to school, as they needed a place to sleep it off! The man you see pushing that car was exactly what my Grandfather did in 1894 when he came to settle in America, only he knew enough to apply for Citizenship and had it in two years. He went back to Italy to marry my Grandmother. He stayed for a while and when he knew his wife was pregnant, he rushed back to America to make certain that his first child was born in America. That person became my father. I'LL BE CONTINUING THIS EVERY WEEK TO TELL OF MY LIFE AND FAMILY!!! Watch for it. June 20, 2020 3pm: My father was naturally spoiled being the first son of an Italian family, and even more so because he was truly the first family member born in American. He could do no wrong and as the family grew and grew, before long he had 5 brothers and three sisters, but still in his parents eyes he was the one and only. As his brothers grew up they were always jealous of him, but inside they loved him as a special person, as did everyone who ever met him. The workers in the 5 businesses he fad going at the same time Salvatore Anthony Bianco: Born September 19th 1901 Growing up for him was a wonder, cause he tried everything and was allowed to do them, as he went to school, the first in his family to do so, he excelled in mathematics, and as his life proceeded, it helped him achieve many accomplishments. First thing he did was leave high school, La Salle academy, after two years to help run his father trucking business! As his brothers grew up and began to handle a horse, he would teach them how to work in the trucking business! Then when ready, buy other horse and wagon, all because he went out using his great personality to find new Customers. He took over the “reins” of the business as his father retired. To be...

Two weeks ago, I embarked on an enriching journey into the heart of Little Italy, NYC, visiting the Old St Patrick Cathedral. This historic Basilica is more than just a place of worship—it's a time capsule, preserving an invaluable piece of the city's heritage.

The guided tour is a comprehensive 90-minute deep dive into the church's history, architecture, and artifacts. It begins with a compelling 15-minute video that sets the stage for what to expect. The anticipation builds as the video ends, making way for natural exploration.

Joseph-François Mangin's brilliant design adorns the cathedral, established between 1809 and 1815. The Gothic Revival style, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, comes to life in this magnificent structure. But the cathedral's allure is not just limited to its architectural prowess. The array of statues, paintings, and altarpieces tell a tale of faith and devotion that has spanned centuries.

The tour is not just confined to the cathedral's interior. The historic cemetery established in 1815, the same year the church was founded, offers a profoundly moving experience. It is the final resting place for many eminent New Yorkers, including Pierre Toussaint, John Hughes, and Joseph-François Mangin.

The cemetery is divided into two sections: the upper and the lower. The upper cemetery, visible from the church grounds, is adorned with various grave markers made from marble, granite, and sandstone. All grave markers, including headstones, footstones, and monuments, are decorated with distinctive symbols, family emblems, and personalized inscriptions. These markers add a personal touch to the sea of memorials.

The lower cemetery, tucked away beneath the church, is home to catacombs. This labyrinth of underground tunnels used for interment is a profound testament to the past. The catacombs are lined with niches, their marble slabs engraved with names, serving as quiet reminders of the lives lived and the legacies left behind.

The Old St Patrick Cathedral remained the seat of the archdiocese until the current St. Patrick's Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan opened its doors in 1879. Despite this, its historical and spiritual significance has not diminished but instead grown with time.

My visit to the Old St Patrick Cathedral was more than a tour—it was a profound experience, a journey into the past marked by faith, family, and reverence for those who walked the path before us. The guides were well-informed and passionate, enriching the tour with fascinating insights.

This place is a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and seekers of profound...

The Catacombs at St. Patrick’s old Cathedral

Wonderful experience. Well crafted tour, smaller group, 60-90 minutes long, engaging tour guide with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Worth the price ($35-$40 per person via Fever website) The flow of the tour was well thought out by the organizers. Pacing was good, there was ample time to checkout the cathedral and catacombs, and an equally fair amount of allotted time for prayers.

Definitely a must visit this Summer. 5 ⭐️ Stars.

Interesting fact about the cathedral is that it’s known as the pope’s cathedral, and important Catholic figures the likes of Pierre Toussant and Rev. John Dubois who pioneered its development through philanthropy maintained its existence & grandeur to this day. Also learned fascinating things about the history of New York in the 1800s which was one of the focal points of the tour itself. Specifically the discrimination and prejudice migrants endured during this period, and its impact on how New Yorkers live today. What a blessing to be able to learn about cultural and social issues, at the same time marvel at impressive landmarks such as The St. Patrick’s old cathedral, for the purpose of sharing a bit of history and to further appreciate the value this beloved city brings to us,...