Michael Brooks
As of December 2018, there were 3,391 Catholic cathedrals worldwide. A cathedral is a specific type of church that serves as the primary church within a diocese and is the seat of a bishop. They are typically more intricate and grandiose in design to reflect their higher status. The country with the most cathedrals is Italy, with 368, followed by Brazil with 287, and the United States with 215.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of Catholic Cathedrals in the world | 3105 |
| Number of Co-Cathedrals | 359 |
| Number of Former Cathedrals | 524 |
| Number of Pro-Cathedrals | 61 |
| Number of Basilicas in the world | 1850+ |
| Number of Basilicas in Italy | 580 |
| Number of Basilicas in the US | 93 |
| Number of Catholic cathedrals in the US | 215 |
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What You'll Learn
Number of basilicas worldwide
Basilicas are Catholic church buildings that have a designation, conferring special privileges, given by the Pope. There are two types of basilicas: major basilicas and minor basilicas.
There are four major basilicas, all located in the Diocese of Rome: the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, St. Peter's Basilica, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside-the-Walls, and the Basilica of St. Mary Major. Major basilicas outrank all other churches in precedence, including cathedrals. They each possess a papal throne and an altar over which only the pope or someone directly delegated by him may preside. Each of the major basilicas also contains a holy door that remains sealed except during Holy Years of Jubilee, which are popular times for Catholics to pilgrimage to Rome to pass through these doors.
The number of minor basilicas worldwide is more extensive, with over 1,800 minor basilicas as of 2023. Minor basilicas are granted their status by the Pope through the Vatican. The process begins with a church petitioning its local Diocese for permission to apply to become a minor basilica. If approved, the church completes a formal application in Latin, consisting of a questionnaire exploring the church's architecture, art, liturgical life, religious devotions, participation of the laity, charitable works, and historical relevance. The application is reviewed by the Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments (CDWDS) on behalf of the Pope, who notifies the church of their decision.
Minor basilicas are distinguished by certain privileges, including the right to display a Umbraculum (a silk canopy in papal colours) and a Tintinnabulum (a bell on a pole). They also have the right to display the Papal Symbol of Crossed Keys on banners, furnishings, and seals. Additionally, the rector of a minor basilica may wear a black 'mozetta' or cap with red piping, buttons, and buttonholes during his office.
The number of minor basilicas varies by country and region. For example, there are currently 93 Catholic basilicas in the United States, with New York State having the most basilicas.
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Cathedrals in the US
The United States is home to several beautiful cathedrals, attracting tourists and worshippers alike. As of December 2018, there were 215 Catholic cathedrals in the country. The US also lays claim to the largest cathedral in the world—the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This Episcopal cathedral is known for its stunning architecture and interior design.
Another notable cathedral in the US is the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Perched on the highest point in the capital, it is renowned for its striking Notre-Dame-esque facade and towering stained-glass windows. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the cathedral's observation gallery.
In Savannah, Georgia, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist stands out with its white and gold facade and beautiful stained glass. The pipe organ within fills the nave with its iconic sound.
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis in St. Louis is also worth mentioning. It boasts one of the largest mosaics in the world, with a 41.5-million piece glass display designed in part by Tiffany Studios. The basilica features two domes, many arches, and 83,000 square feet of sprawling mosaic artwork.
Additionally, the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, located in the heart of the French Quarter, is the oldest church in North America. Its iconic spires overlook the vibrant activity of artists, musicians, and street vendors in the historic Jackson Square. The breathtaking ceiling murals inside the cathedral are a sight to behold.
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What is a cathedral?
As of December 2018, there were 3,391 Catholic cathedral-level churches worldwide, with the majority in countries with significant Roman Catholic populations such as Italy, Brazil, the United States, India, France, Mexico, Spain, the Philippines, Colombia, Canada, and Argentina.
A cathedral is a church that contains the cathedra (Greek for 'seat') of a bishop, serving as the central church of a diocese, conference, or episcopate. The word 'cathedral' is derived from the Latin 'cathedra', meaning 'seat' or 'throne', and refers to the presence and prominence of the bishop's chair or throne, raised above both the clergy and the laity. The bishop's throne symbolises their role as a teacher and their authority to govern the diocese.
The primary purpose of a cathedral is to be a place of Christian worship, but it also often holds cultural and community significance and is used for events such as concerts, lectures, and ceremonies. Cathedrals are usually specific to Christian denominations with an episcopal hierarchy, such as the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and some Lutheran churches.
The evolution of cathedrals began in the fourth century with the construction of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and St. John Lateran in Rome, which was formally dedicated as a place of worship by Pope Sylvester I in 324. Cathedrals became universal within the Western Catholic Church in the 12th century, developing distinct architectural forms, institutional structures, and legal identities separate from parish churches, monastic churches, and episcopal residences.
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What is a basilica?
As of December 2018, the Catholic Church had approximately 3,391 cathedral-level churches worldwide. This includes 3,037 cathedrals, 312 co-cathedrals, and 42 pro-cathedrals.
Now, what exactly is a basilica?
A basilica is a type of church that has been recommended to and approved by the Vatican. To be considered a basilica, a church must meet certain criteria, including liturgy, sacraments, size, renown, beauty, and mission. There are two types of basilicas: major and minor. Only four major basilicas exist, and they are all located in Rome: St. Peter's, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. These four churches are historically and practically connected to the Pope and are also known as Papal Basilicas. All other basilicas are considered minor basilicas.
The distinction between major and minor basilicas appears to have emerged in the early 18th century, with the earliest record of the term "major basilica" dating back to 1727. Major basilicas possess a papal throne and a papal high altar, which only the Pope can authorize for Mass. They also have special holy doors and are designated as pilgrimage sites, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Minor basilicas also hold certain privileges. They are allowed to carry the ombrellino, a red and gold umbrella associated with the Pope, and the tintinnabulum, a bell on a pole that traditionally signified the Pope's approach. Minor basilicas are referred to as "papal minor basilicas," "pontifical minor basilicas," or "patriarchal minor basilicas." An example of a minor basilica is the Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside-the-Walls in Rome.
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Most famous cathedrals
As of December 2018, the Catholic Church had 3,391 cathedral-level churches worldwide, predominantly in countries with a significant Roman Catholic population. These include Italy, Brazil, the United States, India, France, Mexico, Spain, the Philippines, Colombia, Canada, and Argentina.
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City
St. Peter's Basilica is the largest church in the world, designed and primarily painted by Michelangelo. It boasts stunning Renaissance architecture and is home to the famous Pietà sculpture.
Notre-Dame Cathedral, France
Notre-Dame Cathedral is a classic example of Gothic architecture. It features iconic flying buttresses, rose windows, and significant historical artifacts and events.
Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, Italy
The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Order of Friars Minor Conventual and is a papal minor basilica. It is the burial place of St. Francis of Assisi and features frescoes by Giotto. It serves as a significant pilgrimage site.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Italy
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is renowned for its Renaissance architecture and massive dome designed by Brunelleschi. The beautiful marble facade took 140 years to complete.
St. Paul's Cathedral, United Kingdom
St. Paul's Cathedral features baroque architecture by Sir Christopher Wren and an impressive dome. It has historical significance, having hosted royal weddings and state funerals.
Duomo di Milano, Italy
Duomo di Milano is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, featuring intricate spires and statues. It offers panoramic city views from its rooftop.
Chartres Cathedral, France
Chartres Cathedral is known for its well-preserved Gothic architecture, stunning stained glass windows, and the labyrinth on its floor.
Berliner Dom, Germany
Berliner Dom is the largest cathedral in Berlin and a striking example of Prussian Historicist architecture. It was built between 1895 and 1905 and is located on the UNESCO heritage-listed Museum Island.
Cologne Cathedral, Germany
Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom, is a Classic Roman Catholic Church dating back to the mid-13th century. It is an eye-catching landmark right next to the Cologne train station. Construction began in the mid-14th century and was finally completed in 1880. It is the tallest Gothic building in the world with the largest façade of any church.
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Frequently asked questions
As of December 2018, there were 3,391 Catholic cathedral-level churches worldwide.
A cathedral is the home church for the bishop or archbishop of a Catholic diocese. It is the principal church within a diocese.
A basilica is an important church building designated by the Pope because it carries special significance. A basilica may or may not be the cathedral of a diocese.
There are over 1,850 basilicas worldwide, with 580 in Italy alone.
