Tennessee is a US State everyone dreams of exploring. Country music, mouthwatering dishes, and natural beauty make it a favorite tourist destination. Aside from all these, the Volunteer State is also popular for its rich heritage, specifically, that relates to Catholicism which is still a part of Tennessee to this date. It is evident through the Catholic Churches including Cathedrals, Monasteries, Shrines, and other spiritual sites. In this blog post, we will travel to the beautiful Catholic Cathedrals in Tennessee, touring each for your travel reference. So sit back, read, and take notes. The next time you travel, you’d come prepared.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Graceland, and Dollywood are some of the attractions Tennessee is famous for. But, apart from these, it also houses Cathedrals that are stunning that you should consider visiting.
Here are the must-see Catholic Cathedrals in Tennessee.
Most Sacred Heart Cathedral
Let’s start our tour with the Most Sacred Heart Cathedral. Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, it was founded in 1956 and completed in 2018. This Renaissance Revival structure prides its traditional look with a touch of modern style. It has a limestone brick exterior with a rose window on the facade emphasizing its quaintness. The central dome with interior images of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Apostles is just gorgeous. Additionally, its Altar is simple yet elegant. It is made of Michelangelo Statuario marble. There are also impressive religious artworks inside such as statues and paintings particularly the Stations of the Cross which are striking. Lastly, there are candle areas to pray. If you visit, might as well attend their services and experience their heavenly music. A Cathedral in Tennessee that should be on top of your list!
Cathedral of the Incarnation
Our next holy destination is the Cathedral of the Incarnation. It is the seat of the Diocese of Nashville. Modeled after the Basilica of San Martino ai Monti in Rome, it was completed in 1914. With its Italianate architectural style which consists of yellow brick as its material, its physical attribute will surely astound you. The main ceiling is the highlight of the interior with symbols that relate to the death of Christ and His birth. Its Altar which has a crucifixion scene is one of the most marvelous you’ll see. Arts like striking stained glass windows, statues of religious figures, and Stations of the Cross will also inspire you. It also shelters the relic of St. Victor. The Cathedral has a Blessed Sacrament Chapel which you should visit too. This is a perfect Church for a wedding. One of the picturesque Catholic Churches in Nashville.
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Situated in Memphis, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception was founded in 1921 and was completed in 1938. It is part of the Central Gardens Historic District and has been on the list of the National Register of Historic Places since 1982. It is in a Spanish Colonial Revival style with a cruciform shape. The facade has a rose window the same as its transepts. An Altar that is heaven-like with a depiction of the Assumption on top will welcome you. It also presents paintings and sculptures that are majestic. There are resplendent stained glass windows as well. In addition, the music is powerful which is classical and traditional. Ultimately, the community is warm and welcoming. You should attend their various devotions! Visiting this Cathedral is worth it! Don’t forget it on your Memphis places to visit list.
Conclusion
There you have the three (3) must-visit Cathedrals in Tennessee.
Visiting Cathedrals is such a life-changing experience for us Catholics. It strengthens our relationship with God through His Church. Helping us to renew our Faith and reconnect with Him, teaching us spiritual lessons. And these Cathedrals could be a good starting point.
Historical significance, architectural style and designs, and religious artworks are the main reasons why pilgrims love to visit Catholic Cathedrals. All these features are in the Cathedrals of Tennessee. They hold lots of memories of the past, they possess remarkable structural designs and they preserve religious arts of importance. These holy sites will surely improve your spiritual life.
May we all journey through this life with lively faith and trust.
Pray, travel, and enjoy!