St. John Cantius Cathedral

Just a short walk from downtown Chicago is St. John Cantius Cathedral, a Roman Catholic rite. Founded in 1893, the cathedral has become an iconic site for the large Polish diaspora living in Chicago.

The cathedral building is a vivid example of the so-called Polish style with its scope and luxury. The facade is made of rusted sandstone. The massive pediment is decorated with the coat of arms of the participants of the January Uprising and the inscription in Polish “God Save Poland”. Below is the motto of the Jesuit Order. Three arched entrances lead inside the cathedral. Eight stone columns with carved capitals support its high vault. The central and two side altars are decorated with carvings and gilding. Stained glass windows depict religious subjects.

Special attention deserves gender - a real work of art. In its manufacture, 16 valuable species of trees were used. The encrusted central aisle medallions tell the story of Christ’s life from birth to resurrection. In one of the towers of the cathedral there is an exhibition of sacred art, where objects representing real museum value are exhibited.

St. John Cantius Cathedral is famous for its magnificent choir, as well as numerous concerts of sacred music.