Saint Augustine Cathedral in Tucson started life in a small two-room house back in 1858. Ten years later is had grown to a substantial church serving an ever expanding population. The two-room house was expanded and finally a church was built but it wasn't until 1928 that the brick structure was turned into the Mexican baroque building that we see today.
When I walked through those front doors and entered the lobby area, I was amazed at what I saw. The entire lobby area is surrounded by a cast of characters many of whom are easily recognizable.
The entire lobby is decorated with a Trompe-l'oeil style murals containing 30 life-sized figures.
The area was painted by artist and restoration specialist, John Alan. The murals are dedicated to Monsignor Edward Ryle and were funded by the Ryle Foundation. The entire restoration work began in 1968 and was overseen by John Alan.
The crown jewel of the newly restored church is the Pamplona Crucifix that was gifted to the church and installed in 1981. It was carved in Spain and is over 600 years old.
I'm posting this on Easter Sunday and I'm confident that this beautiful church is full of worshippers enjoying the beauty of this very special place.
8 comments:
St. Augustine was actually a major pain in the ass, but, as usual it was his mother's fault so we'll give him a pass on Easter Sunday. And that isn't to say that the Church can't build gorgeous structures and attach his name to them. The exterior and interior are both quite beautiful. My favorite shot is the long one looking down the center aisle through the nave to the altar. If it wasn't for some silly theme this would have been the perfect post for Easter Sunday. :)) Sorry if I've offended anyone. Nah, not really...
Very Beautiful
Wow! I've never been inside and now that I see what I've missed, I'm just glad you have and have shared it.
Gosh it's hard to believe that this incroyable cathedral started off as a simple house Sharon. The wall murals are brilliant, must have been wonderful to see.
Wow Sharon, this is stunning. The murals are wonderful, but that Crucifix is just amazing. Have a wonderful Easter!
A magnificent church!
Incredible trompe l'oeil! I never went inside, shame on me...
Beautiful.
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