San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral
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Grace Cathedral is perched on the stately crest of San Francisco’s Nob Hill neighbourhood. Completed in 1964, it sits on land gifted by the family of railroad "Big Four" Charles Crocker. Crocker’s Nob Hill mansion used to stand on the spot, but was destroyed by the great earthquake and fire of 1906, during which all but one of the extravagant neighbourhood mansions were destroyed—look east from the cathedral across Huntington Park to see that building, a large, dignified brownstone.
Designed in the French Gothic style, the Episcopal church was inspired by Notre Dame in Paris, an influence clearly visible in the grand façade and striking rose window. Scale the sweeping staircase on the eastern side of the building, and take a look at the east entrance doors before entering. These are gilded bronze replicas of the Gates of Paradise; the originals were sculpted by Lorenzo Ghiberti in the 15th century for the Baptistry in Florence.
Inside, the church is cool and hushed, unless you’ve stumbled upon a choir performance. To the right you’ll find Keith Haring’s AIDS Chapel altarpiece, while straight ahead on the ground is a labyrinth used for traditional meditative walking, based on a famous medieval labyrinth at a cathedral in Chartres, France. Take some time to enjoy the fine stained glass windows and Jan Henryk De Rosen mosaics. Back outside, walk across Taylor Street to enjoy a final picturesque view of the cathedral from Huntington Park.
Contact tel: +1 415 749 6300
Cost adult ticket: Free
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Grace Cathedral, San Francisco
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