NYC Top Religious Sites Walking Tour (Self Guided), New York

Other than high-risers, New York City is also famous for the variety of beautiful places of worship renowned for their architectural splendor. After 1830, inspired by a love for all things medieval imported from England, the Gothic style developed in the metropolis, as first illustrated by the Grace Church (1846). The best example of this style, however, remains St Patrick’s Cathedral, which covers the whole block between famous 5th and Madison avenues, making it one of the most visible symbols of the Catholic Church in the United States. Immaculate both outside and inside following restorations, the Cathedral’s marble, stained glass and gold fixtures are out of this world.

Walking a couple blocks from St. Patrick’s on Fifth Avenue, you’ll find the early 20th century Gothic-style St Thomas Church amongst towering skyscrapers. Though it holds many lovely elements, the stunning ‘reredos’ behind the altar prove to be the focal point, catching the eye as soon as you enter. The wide work of art – perhaps the largest in the world – displays recesses with 60 carved statues (representing Christ, saints and other figures), similar to those in England’s Winchester and Canterbury cathedrals.

Meanwhile, the Central Synagogue, restored after a 1999 fire, is considered NYC’s best example of Moorish-Islamic Revival architecture, and a visit to the elegant Temple Emanu-El provides the unique opportunity to see a Jewish landmark as large and spectacular as any European cathedral. The temple could, in fact, be easily mistaken for a Catholic one due to the stained-glass windows, but aside from depictions of biblical scenes, a close look will reveal the tribal signs of the houses of Israel.

To explore these and other top religious sites of the Big Apple, join us on this self-guided walking tour.