The second project which we will explore by Benjamin Henry Latrobe is the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also called the Baltimore Basilica. The Basilica was constructed between 1806 and 1863. This was the first Roman Catholic Cathedral constructed in the United States. It was also monumental as an example of expressing religions freedom after the ratification of the United States Constitution.
When exploring the design of the cathedral we can see the neoclassical influence across the Latin cross plan. The plan united longitudinal axis with a domed space. This is a major departure from previous American church designs, but honors traditional European cathedral design.
When examining the exterior one can see on the main facade classical greek porticos with ionic columns in a double hexastyle pattern. The onion shaped domes atop the two towers were entirely a new design by Latrobe. The outside dome was constructed of stone from a nearby town. Thomas Jefferson suggested a wooden double-shell dome. Latrobe created a hybrid with the inner dome created out of a classically detailed masonry hemisphere.
The interior is occupied by a massive dome of the Latin cross plan. This creates a centralized effect. Latrobe created a much more light filled interior by adding a sophisticated system of barrel vaults and shallow saucer domes. This strikingly contrasted previous Gothic designs.
The Basilica has stood the test of time for over 200 years, and will continue to see millions more visitors. Its was designed to last a thousand years like the European Cathedrals it was modeled after. One must appreciate the history and firsts created from this work.
