Religious Sites Guide

Our Local Expert Says:

Great for a religious outing.

Description:

Designed by Benjamin Latrobe -- who was working on the U.S. Capitol at the same time -- this neoclassical basilica is considered one of America's most beautiful. A national shrine and historic landmark, it was the first cathedral built in the United States and has been a monument to religious freedom since 1806. Notable visitors have included Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II, both of whom now have memorials to their visits here. A controversial restoration, including the removal of stained glass and uncovering of 24 skylights in the dome, has resulted in a light-drenched sanctuary filled with glittering details. For natives who remember the dark, solemn space, this was a startling revelation, and a welcome one. The project also uncovered balconies reserved for African-American Catholics and cloistered nuns. The undercroft has reopened with a chapel, museum, and crypt. Guided tours are available.

Description:

Entrusted to the Pallottine Priests and Brothers by the Archbishop of Baltimore in 1917, the St. Jude Shrine is the center of St. Jude Devotions in the United States. St. Jude Thaddeus has been dubbed "The Forgotten Saint" due to the actions of Judas Iscariot, the betrayer of Jesus. Unlike Judas Iscariot, St. Jude Thaddeus died a martyr and his remains are in the great basilica of St. Peter in Rome. He is considered the patron saint for those in dire need. After an increase of St. Jude Devotions following WWII, the Pallottines established regular novena services to honor the saint. Call the shrine for timings. The popularity of the shrine has skyrocketed, attracting both local and nationwide parishioners.

Description:

This grand looking church has a large congregation and is a parish of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Stop by just to awe at the architecture or step inside to see the inspiring artwork.

Description:

This beautiful church is named after George Brown, a local merchant. In 1869, his widow donated the money for the church's construction. Over a hundred years later, the congregation is more active than ever. The Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church is committed to its members of all ethnicities, viewpoints and ages and is also dedicated to making a positive impact on the City of Baltimore.

Description:

Formerly called "The German Cathedral" due to its South German neo-Gothic style, St. Alphonsus Catholic Church is a historic landmark designed by the famous architect Robert Cary Long in 1845. Many saints, including Blessed George Matulaitis and St. John Neumann, have prayed here, making this church a place of religious importance in the Catholic community.