Basilica of St. Lawrence, Asheville (must see)

The Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence the Deacon and Martyr is a Roman Catholic church that was completed in 1905. The church was designed by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino in a Catalan architectural style.

Guastavino worked together with architect R.S. Smith and local residents of Asheville to create a catholic church that was in keeping with the city's preferred style. The exterior of the church has a visible display of many ornate stained glass windows.

The interior of the church is as ornate as the exterior. It includes an Italian marble relief of the nativity of the Christ, a Marian altar with carvings of a number of female saints, wood carvings and terra cotta panels.

Visitors are welcome to tour the church, which was named a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II. They can attend services or enjoy the beauty of the church grounds. The Basilica of St. Lawrence includes a Catholic library and a gift shop, both of which are open after church services on weekends.

Why You Should Visit:
Basilica of St. Lawrence is a rare example of Catalan architecture in North Carolina and you get to appreciate the beauty of many religious artifacts in the church.

Tips:
Daily masses are available. Confessions are offered in the church vestibule on a daily basis. The library and gift shop are only open on weekends.