basilica of saint lawrence

I am a Catholic, so I went to Mass here. I was completely mesmerized for this place, such a beautiful architecture and the paintings are amazing. Loved it!

It is such a beautiful church! The ceiling and stained glass windows are amazing. Be sure to stop by if you are in Asheville.

A National Historic Site, this 1909 Spanish Renaissance church is handsome outside, and beautiful inside. When you visit, please remember to show some respect for this sacred space. We spotted two young men, who didn't know the difference between a barn and a church, strolling the interior with their hats on.

The stained glass and the architecture in unrivaled in Asheville. It's right downtown. A very unique church inded.

A walk around the exterior and a visit to the inside of this beautiful structure is a must if you love historic architecture.

The History of the Basilica, the building of the Church and ongoing problems the Church has with the city in trying to maintain its uniqueness. There is a lot going on behind the scenes. Parking is the main issue we had while attending this Basilica when we were members. Parking in downtown is the biggest issue I have since if you don't know Asheville could be towed if you parked in the wrong area.

The architect is the same who designed the Biltmore. This is a must-see in Asheville. The domed ceiling, tiled floors and altar are amazing.

If you need a break, stop by St. Lawrence. Guastavino built it ... the same architect who created Grand Central Station in New York. It has the largest unsupported dome in America. It's held together only by its bricks and pure genius. It is wonderfully quiet and a great place to find peace during your stay. A little-known fact ... when you come in the front door, go to the chapel in the back and you will see a yellow tent on the ceiling. If the Pope ever comes to Asheville, he will go to that church and that candle will finally be lit!

A very historic building in addition to being a church, designed by a nationally renowned architech..

We went on a Saturday and enjoyed the beautiful building, statues and stained glass. It was peaceful and relaxing. I look forward to going again. Enjoyable even for the non religious.

History and the gravity of faith combine well in the Asheville landmark. It's worth your time to make a visit, either as a pilgrim or a tourist.

I loved everything about our visit. I was able to bring my Spanish classes. It's so wonderful and the richness of the history is rare to find in WNC. One way to really interest High School students is to take them to a church where the person who built it is entombed. :) I loved watching their faces as they heard the true stories of the Basilica from our superb docent Dianne. You have to visit the Basilica if you go to Asheville it's right beside the Civic Center.

The influence of the Spanish architect of this building is obvious from the outside and inside when you visit this beautiful structure. There are signs stating Reverential as you enter, but the signs are unnecessary once you are inside. This beautiful church challenges you to be anything but reverential as you take in the awesome grandeur of where you are and your surroundings.You won't need to spend a lot of time here, unless you so choose, but I would encourage you to stop in and you'll probably leave with a lower blood pressure than when you entered.

This is quite a fabulous architectural gem, both inside and out. Its mere existence emanates warmth and tradition. When we went (took my sister from OR there), it was during mass so we were unable to thoroughly explore. What I saw was amazing -- a true testament to Roman Catholic churches. This is a must-see for architect-hounds.

Beautiful stained glass windows, candles, stations of the cross. Incenses. The tower bells ring the changes of the hour. This beautiful historic church is unlocked during the day (use the side door). It is worth visiting, even if one is not Catholic..