Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

Set against the industrial backdrop of Lewiston stands a true architectural masterpiece — the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. This majestic Gothic cathedral, located in the USA, is considered one of the largest and most impressive Catholic churches in all of New England. Its monumental gray granite exterior and soaring towers create an atmosphere of medieval Europe in the heart of Maine.

The building is striking in its scale: its length reaches 96 meters, with two massive towers rising 52 meters into the sky. The facade is particularly captivating, featuring a massive rose window. This element was inspired by the famous Chartres Cathedral in France, highlighting the deep cultural ties of the local community to European traditions. A sturdy steel frame and brick reinforcement are hidden beneath noble stone cladding, while slate and copper roofs complete this solemn image.

Today, the basilica is not only an active religious center but also an important historical landmark. It serves as a living reminder of the Franco-Canadian immigrants' contribution to the region's development and remains the city's primary visual landmark, drawing the attention of travelers and Gothic Revival enthusiasts.

To clarify information about events and special services, you can use the organization's official contacts:

The main reason to step inside is the stunning interior, which transports visitors into a world of peace and beauty. Be sure to notice the stained glass windows: when sunlight passes through the colored glass, the sanctuary is filled with a magical glow. Equally impressive are the hand-carved wooden images of saints — the delicate work of Canadian craftsmen from the famous Bourgault family, which gives the cathedral a special coziness.

Inside the church, you will find majestic columns that artfully mimic birch trunks, and vaulted Gothic ceilings that create a sense of incredible volume. After exploring the upper church, be sure to head down to the lower church, which possesses its own unique atmosphere for quiet reflection.

It is also recommended to visit the Heritage Center. Here, you can learn much about the basilica's cultural significance to locals and see exhibits detailing the history of the construction of this architectural colossus. This place is perfect for feeling the spirit of old Lewiston and appreciating the craftsmanship of past builders.

The majestic cathedral is located at 122 Ash St, Lewiston, ME 04240. Getting here is quite simple, as the city is situated close to Maine's major transport arteries. If you are traveling by car, follow the I-95 highway. The drive from Portland takes about 45 minutes, while the journey from Boston is approximately 2.5 hours.

For those arriving from further away, the nearest major air hub is Portland International Jetport (PWM). From the airport, the basilica is about an hour's drive by taxi or rental car. Within the city center, the church is easily reached on foot or via local taxi services that will quickly deliver you to the main entrance.

The history of this grand structure began in 1872, when the first stone was laid for a church intended for the growing community of Franco-Canadian immigrants. These people came to Lewiston seeking work in local textile mills, and religion served as their vital link to their homeland.

By the beginning of the 20th century, the community had grown so large (nearly 10,000 parishioners) that the old building could no longer accommodate everyone. Construction of the current monumental basilica, designed by Belgian architect Noel Coumans, began in 1905. However, due to financial difficulties and a division within the parish, the process stretched over several decades. The lower church was completed as early as 1906, but the upper church remained unfinished for another 28 years.

Interestingly, the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul was built as a symbol of the resilience and faith of local workers. Despite the industrial nature of the city, the residents strove to create something incredibly beautiful that would remind them of the great cathedrals of Europe.

To leisurely explore the upper and lower churches, admire the play of light in the stained glass, and visit the Heritage Center, you will typically need 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to get acquainted with the architecture and peacefully contemplate the interiors.

If you plan to attend a Mass or study the historical exhibition dedicated to Franco-Canadian heritage in detail, you should set aside a bit more time. The surrounding area also invites a short walk to view the facade and towers from various angles.

The basilica is open to visitors during limited hours, so it is best to plan your visit in advance. Typically, the church doors are open on Saturday from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM, as well as on Sunday during two blocks: from 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM and from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Access for tourists may be restricted on weekdays (Monday through Friday).

Since the schedule can change based on church holidays and special services, we highly recommend checking the latest information on the official website before your trip.

Exploring the surroundings of the basilica can significantly enrich your experience. Lewiston and neighboring Auburn hide many interesting industrial and architectural landmarks that tell the story of the region.