the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is an architectural masterpiece and the seat of the diocese of Savannah. In the French-Gothic style, pointed arches and magnificent details make a breathtaking backdrop to the gorgeous Savannah skyline. It was founded in 1700 by the first French Colonists and although the original early structures were destroyed by fire, the current cathedral dates back to 1874.The Savannah Cathedral is frequently referred to as the Sistine of the South because of its lavish decoration — just look at that dreamy shade of blue on the ceilings! It really is like walking into a medieval painting.Like many Roman Catholic Cathedrals, the murals around the high altar are the four evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
The front altar weighs over 9,000 pounds. It is made of white Carrar marble and across the front an inscription reads: “Beati Qui Ad Cenam Agni Vocati Sunt.” That translates from Latin to “Blessed are they who are called to the banquet of the Lamb.”One of the most extraordinary aspects of the Savannah Cathedral are the murals adorning the walls.
While they might look like frescoes – painted directly onto the plastar – they are actually painted on canvas. They were painted in New York City and transferred to Savannah in 1912 for installation!
Two of my favorites are the mural of Pentacors and of the Sermon on the Mount. The colors of the murals in Savannah’s Cathedral are so bright it really feels as though you are being pulled into the story of Jesus…
The Cathedral contains over 70 stained glass windows – including the Rose Window above the organ!
The organ itself was built in 1987, so is more modern. It’s made of oak and is really beautiful to behold!
