Basilica of Saint Andrew

Perched on a scenic hill in the heart of Roanoke, the Basilica of Saint Andrew is a true architectural treasure of Virginia. This majestic Catholic church, built in the Gothic Revival style, is rightfully considered one of the most significant religious and cultural landmarks in the USA. Its tall spires and elegant forms dominate the skyline, inviting travelers to touch history.

Its status as a "minor basilica" highlights its special historical and liturgical importance. The building is striking in its harmony: massive stone walls are paired with the lightness of pointed windows and delicate carvings. For many visitors, it is not just a place of worship, but a true open-air museum where every decorative element carries deep meaning.

Today, the Basilica of Saint Andrew remains the spiritual heart of the community and an important point on the tourist map. Regardless of your beliefs, this place is worth visiting for its unique atmosphere of tranquility and grand beauty, which transports visitors to the heyday of Gothic architecture.

For more information about special events or private tours, you can contact the church administration directly. The Basilica of Saint Andrew is open to communication with parishioners and visitors to the city.

Below are the main contact details:

A visit to the basilica offers guests a unique experience combining aesthetic pleasure and spiritual peace. One of the main highlights is attending services. Sunday masses begin as early as 7:00 AM, allowing pilgrims and tourists to see the church bathed in the morning light filtering through the stained-glass windows.

For history and art enthusiasts, special tours are available. During a walk through the church, you can study the Gothic Revival architectural features in detail: from the massive columns to the elegant vaults. The interior is rich with details that are fascinating to examine for hours, discovering hidden symbols and unique finishes.

Photographers will find an inexhaustible source of inspiration here — the Basilica of Saint Andrew is incredibly photogenic both inside and out. If you simply wish to take a break from the city bustle, you can always spend time in the quiet of the naves, enjoying the cool air and the majestic calm of this historic building. The church also frequently serves as a venue for solemn ceremonies and important cultural events in the city.

Reaching this architectural masterpiece is easy, as it is located in the heart of Roanoke. The exact address is 631 N Jefferson St. Thanks to its central location, the church is within walking distance of many popular hotels and shopping areas, making it a convenient stop during a stroll through the historic center.

For those traveling by car, the city is well-connected to major Virginia highways, such as Interstate 81 and Route 220. Visitor parking is available near the building. You can also use taxi services or popular ride-sharing apps directly from the city center — the trip takes only a few minutes.

Travelers arriving from further away can use the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA), located about 5 kilometers from the city. From the terminal, you can quickly reach the Basilica of Saint Andrew by rental car or taxi. Additionally, Roanoke's public transport system provides regular routes connecting various parts of the city to the downtown area.

The Basilica of Saint Andrew is more than just a building; it is a living chronicle of the city. It was constructed in 1902 and has since been considered one of the most outstanding examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the region. Its construction coincided with Roanoke's "golden age," a period when the city was rapidly transforming into a major transportation hub due to railroad development.

The construction of such a majestic church at the turn of the 20th century was a response to the rapid growth of the Catholic community. Local residents sought to create a sacred space that would match the status of a prospering center of the South. The use of high-quality materials and fine craftsmanship has allowed the building to preserve its original appearance for over a hundred years.

For decades, the basilica has remained the city's spiritual anchor, witnessing various periods of change. Today, it is recognized as a site of immense historical value, serving as a reminder of the industrial boom and the deep commitment to traditions that shaped the modern state of Virginia.

To leisurely explore the interior and appreciate the craftsmanship of the architects, a typical visitor will need between 30 minutes and 1 hour. This is enough time to soak in the atmosphere, admire the stained-glass windows, and take a few memorable photos of the facade.

If you plan to attend a holiday mass, join an organized tour, or simply want to stay longer in silence for spiritual reflection, we recommend setting aside about 1.5–2 hours. The basilica encourages a sense of peace, so there is no need to rush.

The doors of the basilica are generally open to visitors on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On Saturdays, the church is accessible from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and on Sundays, when major services are held, from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This standard schedule allows for convenient visit planning on both weekdays and weekends.

Please note that access to the church may be limited during weddings, funerals, or special liturgical celebrations. To ensure your trip goes perfectly, we strongly recommend checking the information on the official website or calling the parish office before your visit.

A walk around the Basilica of Saint Andrew allows you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and discover many interesting locations. Downtown Roanoke is rich with unique art installations, historic buildings, and cozy plazas, all just a few minutes' walk from the church.

Exploring nearby attractions will help you gain a complete impression of the region's cultural diversity. Here are some interesting places located nearby: