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Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral: Reno's Spiritual Heart

Discover Reno's spiritual heart at Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, a historic landmark blending faith, art, and resilience since 1908.

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Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Reno, stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Built in 1908, it overcame a devastating fire in 1909 to become a historic landmark, boasting a blend of architectural styles and a vibrant community. Its stunning interior features a wraparound mural, considered one of the finest works of its kind.

A brief summary to Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral

Local tips

  • Attend a mass service to experience the cathedral's spiritual atmosphere and admire its architectural details.
  • Take time to view the wraparound mural, a unique and stunning work of art depicting the Adoration of the Lamb of God.
  • Check the cathedral's website for upcoming events, such as concerts or special services, to enhance your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding Riverwalk District for dining and shopping options.
  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained-glass windows and the cathedral's architectural features.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Reno Arch, head south on Virginia Street, then turn left onto W 2nd Street. The cathedral will be on your right, a few blocks down. This is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Look for the prominent bell towers with domed cupolas.

  • Public Transport

    The RTC RIDE bus system has several stops near the cathedral. Check the RTC Washoe website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $2.00. From the 4th Street Station, several bus lines will get you within a short walking distance of the Cathedral.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Reno. A ride from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport to the cathedral is approximately 10-15 minutes and typically costs $20-$30, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral

Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, located at 310 W 2nd St in the heart of Reno, Nevada, has been a spiritual and architectural cornerstone of the city since the early 20th century. As the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Reno, it stands as a beacon of faith, resilience, and artistic spirit. The cathedral's story began in 1906 when Catholic officials acquired land to construct a larger church for Reno's growing Catholic population. Dedicated on June 21, 1908, the original design showcased a fusion of Classical, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural styles. However, disaster struck in December 1909 when a fire nearly destroyed the building. The community rallied to restore the cathedral, reopening its doors in 1910 with a more durable metal roof. In 1931, Reno was designated a separate diocese, elevating Saint Thomas Aquinas to cathedral status. The cathedral's exterior features a symmetrical façade with bell towers topped with domed cupolas. The interior boasts rounded stained-glass windows, ornate altars, and a vaulted ceiling. A renovation in the 1950s added a wraparound mural surrounding the altar, depicting the "Adoration of the Lamb of God, our Lord in the Blessed Eucharist," created by Edith and Isabel Piczek. This mural is considered one of the finest works of its kind in America. Today, Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral welcomes visitors to experience its beauty and learn about its history. Whether attending a mass service, admiring the stained-glass windows, or viewing the mural, the cathedral offers a memorable and enriching experience.

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