st patrick's cathedral catacombs tour reviews

Unveiling the Mysteries: An Exclusive Guide to the Catacomb Tour at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Nestled in the heart of the city, St. Patrick’s Cathedral stands as a beacon of architectural grandeur and historical significance. However, beneath the cathedral’s soaring spires and stained glass windows lies a lesser-known marvel — its ancient catacombs. This article invites you on an exclusive journey, unveiling the mysteries hidden within these subterranean passages.

The catacombs of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, often overshadowed by its majestic above-ground structure, are a repository of history and intrigue. Originally serving as burial grounds, these catacombs have evolved over the centuries, embodying the rich tapestry of the city’s religious and cultural heritage . As we embark on this exploration, we’ll discover the stories etched into the walls of these hallowed corridors and understand why the catacomb tour has become a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Table of Contents

Preparing for the Catacomb Tour

Before delving into the depths of St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s catacombs, it’s essential to prepare adequately for this unique experience. Visitors should note that the catacombs, with their narrow passageways and historical artifacts, require a respectful and mindful approach.

Firstly, appropriate attire is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves navigating uneven terrain. Considering the catacombs’ cooler temperatures, carrying a light jacket is advisable. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to travel light, as large bags or backpacks might be cumbersome in the confined spaces.

In terms of rules, photography may be restricted in certain areas to preserve the sanctity of the site. Tour guides often provide specific instructions on this front. Visitors are also expected to maintain a decorum fitting for a place of rest, ensuring a serene and reflective atmosphere .

By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the catacomb tour’s fascinating journey, making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Highlights of the Catacomb Tour

The catacomb tour at St. Patrick’s Cathedral is an immersive experience, taking visitors through a labyrinth of history and artistry. Among the many highlights, certain aspects stand out, offering a glimpse into the past.

One of the tour’s most captivating features is the array of historical figures interred within its walls. These include prominent citizens, clergy, and benefactors who played pivotal roles in the city’s history. Their final resting places, often marked with ornate tombstones and sculptures, tell stories of the eras they lived in.

Another highlight is the intricate artwork adorning the catacomb walls. From frescoes depicting religious scenes to carvings and inscriptions, these artworks offer a visual journey through the ages. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the catacombs but also serve as historical documents, revealing insights into the artistic trends and cultural values of the time.

Additionally, the tour often includes access to areas usually closed to the public, such as private chapels and hidden chambers. These exclusive sections of the catacombs provide a more intimate look at the cathedral’s history, making the tour a truly unique experience .

The History Behind the Catacombs

The catacombs of St. Patrick’s Cathedral are not merely resting places for the deceased; they are storied vaults that echo the city’s past. Understanding their history enriches the tour experience, connecting visitors to centuries-old traditions and beliefs.

Originally, the catacombs served as a practical solution to the city’s limited burial space . Over time, they became a symbol of reverence and remembrance, housing the remains of notable figures. This transition reflects the evolving attitudes towards death and burial practices throughout history.

The design and structure of the catacombs also mirror architectural trends of various eras. From Romanesque arches to Gothic vaults, each section of the catacombs represents a different chapter in architectural history. Additionally, the preservation efforts shed light on modern attitudes towards heritage conservation, highlighting the importance of maintaining these historical sites for future generations.

Check Also: “ Best Free Activities in NYC This Weekend: A Guide to Fun and Frugality “

Personal Experiences and Testimonials

To truly appreciate the impact of the catacomb tour at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, one must listen to the voices of those who have walked its corridors. Visitors often describe the tour as a profound and enlightening experience, offering a unique perspective on history and spirituality.

Many recount the sense of awe they felt, surrounded by centuries of history. Others speak of a reflective and introspective journey, where the quiet ambience of the catacombs prompted personal contemplation. Some visitors even report feeling a deep connection to the past, as if the stories of those interred within the catacombs were reaching out through time.

These testimonials not only underscore the tour’s significance but also highlight its ability.

FAQ’s: Catacomb Tour at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

• What can I expect from the Catacombs Tour?  The Catacombs Tour by Candlelight is an 80-minute experience exploring New York Immigration history through the perspective of early Catholics. The tour highlights the city’s development, from the era of the Gangs of New York to its current status as a hub of dining, wine, and music culture. The catacombs themselves are a significant example of underground tombs in the United States, housing prominent Catholic families and clergy.
• Where is the Catacombs Tour located?   The Catacombs by Candlelight tour occurs at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in Nolita/Little Italy, not to be confused with St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Midtown on 5th Avenue. The correct location for the tour is 266 Mulberry Street, NY NY 10012.
• Are there any special considerations due to the tour being in an active church?  Yes, tours may be canceled or rescheduled without prior notice to accommodate church events like funerals or weddings. It’s recommended to stay updated through email and Fever notifications for any changes.
• What is the minimum age requirement for the tour?  There are no age restrictions for the Catacombs Tour.
• Is it necessary to arrive at the start of my scheduled session?  It’s advised to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour for check-in. Latecomers should call the tour operators to notify them of their estimated time of arrival.
• Is alcohol permitted on the tour?  Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited on the premises.
• What should I do if I need special accommodations?  For any special accommodations, you can contact the tour organizers directly at (212)300-7683.
• Is there parking available nearby?  Several indoor parking garages are available in the vicinity of the tour location.
• Is the tour conducted indoors or outdoors?  The tour includes both outdoor and indoor sections. The first half is outside in the walled cemeteries, normally off-limits to the public, and the second half is indoors in the climate-controlled Church and Catacombs.
• Are masks required during the tour?  Masks and social distancing are at the discretion of the guests, as there are no longer COVID restrictions. Restrooms are accessible halfway through the tour on the Catacombs level.
• Can I take photos during the tour?  Photos are permitted, but video and audio recordings are prohibited.
• When was the Basilica of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral completed?  The construction of the Basilica was completed in 1815.
• Who is buried in the New York City catacombs?  The catacombs at Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral serve as the resting place for the past nine Archbishops of New York and other prominent Catholics.

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Brave Enough To Explore The Catacombs Of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral By Candlelight?

You can now discover the most thrilling secrets hidden beneath NYC’s very own streets!

Head to Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Nolita for a one-of-a-kind tour of its historic catacombs , an experience every local (and tourist) should check out. This underground space used to be sealed off from the public, but those brave enough can now explore it by candlelight. The Basilica of Saint Patrick’s Old Cathedral (or Old St. Patrick’s), located at 266 Mulberry Street between Prince and Houston Streets in Nolita, is a little over 200 years old and has seen plenty during that time.

Get tickets here to uncover the rich history hidden below the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral!

If you’ve never been inside you’ll have to make a point to do so because it’s a stunning church that recently underwent a $15 million restoration including its classic Henry Erben Organ. However, walking through the cold crypts by candlelight —as they would’ve back in 1815, when it was built—will be the most enlightening part of your time exploring the building.

On this tour you’ll spend 80 minutes beneath a New York City landmark on a stroll through the city’s past, which until recently was closed off and forgotten. This unique Catacombs by Candlelight experience  shines a light on the final resting place of notable New Yorkers and the achievements and hurdles faced by New York’s historic Catholic residents.

Explore hidden areas of the only Catholic catacombs in New York City that are otherwise off-limits to visitors.

Since its opening, the Catacombs by Candlelight tour has become widely popular and should be at the top of your list if you’re visiting the city. If you’re not convinced, here are some reviews of the experience:

The tour guide was awesome, and the tour itself was amazing. Would definitely recommend! It was a great experience! Learned so much about New York in the 1800’s. Dan was a phenomenal tour guide and elevated the whole experience. Leo was a fantastic tour guide! Exceptional knowledge of NY history and was fun and engaging throughout! Would definitely recommend!

Catacombs by Candlelight is open to all ages, and tickets start at $37 for adults ($32 for children and seniors). Each tour lasts 80 minutes, and guests are encouraged to show up for check-in 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

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Catacombs By Candlelight Tour - St. Patrick's Old Cathedral

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Catacombs By Candlelight Tour

Did the catacombs tour offered by tommysnewyork. Mike was a great tour guide...very knowledgeable and personable. We saw a lot more than just the catacombs! We also toured the outdoor cemeteries and the inside of the Cathedral (including the choir loft). A very interesting and worthwhile tour.

Thank you very much John for visiting and the review. We hope to see you again.

Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral is an historic landmark Catholic Church ... Historic Catholic Church Manhattan Cemetery Cremation Niches NYC City

Because I was not aware there was an old St. Patrick's Cathedral I felt I should give this recommended tour a try. We learned interesting history of the cathedral's beginnings as well as the history of the immigrants who helped protect it. Currently, the cathedral is a working church and we were able to observe a wedding in progress. Our guide, Leo, was especially knowledgeable of this NYC neighborhood's history while expertly leading our group comfortably, respectfully, and efficiently through the grounds, building, and catacombs. The tour was a great value and highly recommended.

It is inspiring to tour this "old" cathderal. As the guide showed us around, his commentary brought the Church and catacombs to life. Take the time and don't miss the chance to experience NYC in its finest moments. You can book ahead by using the website for "Tommy's Tours".

Very interesting history and the Immigrants that sought sanctuary there! The preservation of the building and the historical documents were impressive

We've done most of the touristy sites of NYC so I'm always looking for 'hidden New York' and this was the perfect thing. Tommy's Tour started with an interesting historical overview of the cathedral and the local area. The visit to the cemetery, cathedral and especially the catacombs was all very interesting, and the commentary brought it all to life. I'd never seen Gangs of New York with Leonardo DiCaprio, but after hearing the stories we went back to our room that night and watched the whole show - the perfect way to follow up the tour and bring it all together.

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Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

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Time Out says

This fascinating 90-minute tour introduces you to all the secrets of the 200-year-old Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral. Enter areas off-limits to the public, including the Henry Erban Organ, the cemeteries, and top it all off with an exclusive walk-through of the Catacombs themselves. Even better, you will experience the whole tour by candlelight (romantic, if you ignore the dead bodies part). This unique and historic site serves as the final resting place for many prominent New Yorkers, including the Delmonico Family, General Thomas Eckert (a confidant of Abraham Lincoln), Honest John Kelly of Tammany Hall and the first resident Bishop of New York, Bishop John Connolly. 

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NYC: Catacombs by Candlelight

When was the basilica of old st. patrick's cathedral completed, does new york city have catacombs, who is buried in the new york city catacombs, be the first to get offers and news, shopping cart, find your experience.

Catacombs by Candlelight Tour In New York

How would you like to explore the only Catholic catacombs in New York and discover the rich history and spirituality hidden beneath the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral?

Join tens of thousands of thrilled spectators who have already enjoyed this ⭐ 4.6-star fascinating tour. Follow your guide behind the scenes and discover the hidden areas that are off-limits to regular visitors.

The Catacombs Tour

Only catholic catacombs in new york city.

Cemeteries of Old St. Patrick's

Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral NYC

Catacombs by Candlelight tour Reviews

Great experience, the tour guide was very knowledgeable, the grounds are very well preserved, It was a great way to learn more about our city!

Very informative historical tour of the cemeteries, Basilica and Catacombs! Robert, our guide was terrific.

The guide made all the difference! All the history behind the tour was amazing. Could not recommend enough!

The tour was lovely. Our guide answers all our questions and really took his time. It didn’t feel rushed at all. Highly recommend!!!

Really interesting historical content and contemporary opportunities at this extraordinary portal. Our guide was great! Thank you!

Such a cool tour and worth every penny! We got insider information, saw places that were closed off to the general public. Tommy, our tour guide, was especially helpful; he answered every question we had and was so informed! I HIGHLY recommend this tour to anyone visiting NYC!

An amazing history lesson was given prior to seeing the catacombs. It sets the stage perfectly because once you eventually walk down your already well aware of the reasoning why they are there.

Great tour! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, as well as, fun! It was so interesting to learn more about NYC from the cultural and religious perspective. I grew up in the city but I had no idea this was something available to do at St. Patrick’s. I definitely recommend this tour!

Great tour! It was very informative and the tour guide was excellent. The guide took the time to answer all questions and was very knowledgeable.

Excellent tour! Will tell friends that it’s worth the money.

Practical Info

• Thursdays to Mondays, 10:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
• 👉 As this tour takes place in an active church, some time slots may be canceled with short notice due to weddings, funerals, etc
• Duration:  1 hour and 20 minutes
• Location:  266 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012
• Age requirement:  4+
• Accesibility:  the experience is ADA compliant
• Dress code:  Since this a sacred space and active Basilica, visitors are required dress respectfully when visiting. Therefore anyone wearing clothing that is profane or disrespectful will be turned away. Under no circumstances will anyone wearing a costume of any type be permitted to take the tour.
• Price:  starting from $32.00
• This tour will take place rain or shine. Please be aware that half of the tour is outside and there are no umbrellas or ponchos available on site

Where's the Catacombs tour NYC located?

Do you have any questions? Find our Frequently Asked Questions here!

THE EXPERIENCE

• On the Fever App, available on Google Play and the Apple Store.
• On the Fever website .

MISCELLANEOUS

An experience by:

We Toured New York City's Catacombs By Candlelight, Here's What It Was Like

We toured the catacombs underneath New York City, and learned all about the historic secrets they hold.

Quick Links

Experiencing the history of new york city's most famous catholic cathedral, the tour of the new york city catacombs, major takeaways from the new york city catacombs tour.

Deep underneath the typically bustling neighborhood of New York City's Northern Little Italy (or NoLita, for those in the know) lies a secret. Not only does NoLita serve as the original home for the Archdiocese of New York, but beneath the surface, there exists an entire system of catacomb tunnels.

The history of this cathedral can be felt from the moment one walks up to its front steps, as easily as when one strolls through its parish cemetery, where some of the earliest Catholic New Yorkers are still buried. For the macabre-inclined, anything from sarcophagi to crypts and (many) unmarked graves can be found here — and that's all before one descends the steps to its candle-lit catacomb tunnels.

We had the chance to tour the catacombs at the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral by candlelight , and this is what it was like.

Book This Tour

For history lovers, there's nothing more thrilling than knowing that the ground you're standing on was once such a significant part of its past. This sense of history is felt all around the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral , and it's one that's worth experiencing in person.

The New York Catacombs by Candlelight tour begins with an introduction of the Basilica itself, which includes a long, winding, and entirely fascinating history that would surprise even a native New Yorker (and it did!).

• What You Should Know: The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral should not be confused with its Midtown counterpart, known simply as St. Patrick's Cathedral . While the two are related, they are not the same.
• Why?: Catholicism first came to New York during the 17th century while it was still known as New Amsterdam. The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral — which did not gain Basilica status by the Vatican until much later — has been open for more than 200 years. When the newer, more well-known St. Patrick's Cathedral was built in Midtown, the original cathedral underwent a name change in addition to earning the title of a 'Basilica' in the process.

These are several out of possibly hundreds of facts one will learn on the tour of this historic cathedral, helping to curate an experience that is educational, engaging, and altogether humbling.

After a brief intro to the Basilica and its current standing in New York, tour participants will move outdoors to begin the walking portion of the tour (the entire tour takes place on the church premises, so there's not too much walking involved).

The parish cemetery is the next stop on the tour, and we were lucky enough to be scheduled with Mike, who was a fantastic guide. With a jovial sense of humor and a knowledge base that was unbelievably extensive, there seemed to be no question that could not be answered, and no stone — no pun intended — was unturned during his talks.

He led us to the cemetery, where we learned as a group that it's home to more than 4,000 people buried — most in unmarked graves — around the church.

Many of the people buried at this parish cemetery were early Catholics who came to New York, including notable legal, political, and noble figures who existed during the 19th century .

Finding where those are buried, however, is a bit more complicated — over the years, some gravestones and markers have been worn down and are unreadable. This also adds to the overall unintentional atmosphere of the tour, which adds a layer of mystique and intrigue.

What is most fascinating — or disturbing, for some — are the unmarked graves which are, quite literally, everywhere... including where one might be standing while taking the tour.

In addition to the mix of century's old burial sites, there are newer crypts, as well as several final resting places for the ashes of modern notable families who have afforded their place within the parish cemetery for eternity.

After about 30 minutes of walking through the parish cemetery, participants will move to the front of the cathedral, where the tour takes an even more historic turn.

As it turns out, the original St. Patrick's had quite a history — and it was one that many people wouldn't be aware of unless they were privy to its origins and the cataclysmic events that occurred in New York City around the time Catholic churches began gaining recognition.

This also meant they were under attack and, while we won't give away too many spoilers, we were particularly floored to learn that at one point in time, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral once had its own musket-guarded walls.

It's hard to picture the upbeat, colorful neighborhood of NoLita as a Protestant vs. Catholic war zone won over by none other than Bishop "Dagger John" John Hughes, but this is only one piece of New York City's unique history that one will learn on this incredible tour.

New York City's Catacombs: The Descent

After stopping by the original stairway that led down into the catacomb tunnels — which is just as creepy as it sounds — participants have roughly 10 minutes or so to spend within the cathedral. For those who have never been inside the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, the first steps inside are a humbling few.

Not many would know that such a breathtaking interior exists behind the tan stone facade that hides the inner chapel.

Beautiful stained-glass windows let through enough light to illuminate the altar and its religious artifacts, known well by anyone who is familiar with the Catholic Church and Pope-led ceremonies. The crowning jewel of the cathedral, however, is the Henry Erben Organ, which was part of a $15 million dollar renovation , found on the upper floor at the back of the cathedral.

From the cathedral, tour participants are led down a set of stairs where the final part of the tour begins.

Related: The Belvedere Hotel: Why Staying Here Is An Iconic NYC Experience

New York City's Catacombs: The Underground Tunnels

Without giving too much away, the catacombs are as fascinating, mind-blowing, and unique as one might imagine.

It's a whole other world that feels entirely detached from New York City, yet completely appropriate for the families who hold final resting places within the hallowed walls of this cathedral. Their stories, inscribed on sealed catacomb doors, vary from the most elite and famous Catholics of the city to tragedies that reveal how difficult life once was during the early 19th century in New York.

One of the most famous catacombs is that of the late General Thomas Eckert and his family. Inside this catacomb, fully-tiled walls, artistically pieced together by none other than engineer and builder Rafael Guastavino (known for his work in Grand Central as well as Ellis Island), along with original Thomas Edison light fixtures. And yes — Eckert did have electricity installed in his catacomb vault!

The New York catacombs were only opened to the public as recently as 2017, and have only garnered attention since then.

As one of the most impressive in the U.S., it's a rare treat to be able to walk the candlelight-lined halls where so much history has been kept for more than 200 years.

The tour of the parish cemetery and time spent within the cathedral are additional perks of the tour , and only help to add authenticity and significance to an already exceptional historic walk into New York City's past.

New York Catacombs By Candlelight Tour Details

• Duration: ~1.5 hours
• Cost: $37/person
• Location: The corner of 266 Mulberry and Jersey in the neighborhood of NoLita

As visitors raise their own candlelight to read each inscribed catacomb marker, it's one more step they take back into a world where New York City was transformed — and it's an experience that's worth having.

Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

⭐ Take a walk with Tommy’s New York on the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour ! Uncover the secrets of New York's only Catholic catacombs and explore off-limits areas of the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral on this fascinating tour. Don’t miss it!

Tickets for Catacombs by Candlelight Tour in New York 🎫 Standard Tour Admission - includes entry to the experience

• Adult (12+)
• Child (4-11)
• Senior (65+)

🎁 To treat your friends and family to a Catacombs by Candlelight Tour gift card, click here

Highlights ⛪ Explore behind the scenes at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral 🚶‍♂️ Meet your guide in Lower Manhattan, follow them into the church and learn about the landmark's rich history 🤩 Discover the final resting place of famous New Yorkers past in the only Catholic catacombs in NYC

General Info 📅 Dates and times: select your dates/times directly in the ticket selector 👉 As this tour takes place in an active church, some time slots may be canceled with short notice due to weddings, funerals, etc ⏳ Duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes 📍 Location: The Chancery, 266 Mulberry Street. This is the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, please do not go to the 5th Avenue Cathedral 👤 Age requirement: all ages ♿ Accessibility: the experience is ADA compliant. If any accommodation is needed, please let the staff know in advance by calling the number in your Fever ticket instructions 👗 Dress code: nothing profane nor costumes are allowed, including tank tops and short shorts ☔ This tour will take place rain or shine. Please be aware that half of the tour is outside and there are no umbrellas or ponchos available on-site ❓ Please consult the FAQs of this experience here ❗ Please read the Terms & Conditions for this experience before purchasing here

Description Unlock the secrets of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral on this exclusive catacombs tour! Follow your guide behind the scenes and discover the hidden areas that are off-limits to regular visitors. Journey through time as you learn about the church's significance in New York history and uncover the final resting places of famous New Yorkers who have left their mark on Catholic, New York, and American history. Don't miss your chance to explore the only Catholic catacombs in NYC and connect with the past in a truly unique and unforgettable way! Get your tickets for the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour in New York!

User reviews

• Gigi A. Apr 2023 Just an amazing experience, tour guide was knowledgeable and easy to follow! Had a great time 😊
• Maria C. Mar 2023 The guide made all the difference! All the history behind the tour was amazing. Could not recommend enough!
• Faith R. May 2022 Dan was the best tour guide EVER! Extremely knowledgeable and funny. Would highly recommend this tour. Learned a lot!!!
• Caitlin C. May 2022 Leo was fantastic. Super engaging and very informative. 10/10 would recommend this tour
• Brianna S. May 2022 Such a great experience! Highly recommend especially if you have visitors in town. Our guide was super knowledgeable and excited to share fun facts for the entirety of the experience.
• Adriana F. May 2022 Outstanding guide’s tour. Congratulations!!
• Santrese M. Mar 2022 Fantastic tour! Mike does an amazing job and is very knowledgeable with a great people personality. My family adored the tour.
• Jeanne C. Feb 2022 This was an interesting but not too long tour
• Katy R. Mar 2022 Learned so much about the history of New York!
• Irvin S. Feb 2022 Dan’s the best, this tour wouldn’t have been half as exciting without his enthusiasm, humor, and thorough explanations!
• Cynde V. Nov 2021 An amazing history lesson was given prior to seeing the catacombs. It sets the stage perfectly because once you eventually walk down your already well aware of the reasoning why they are there.
• Alnoor M. Jul 2021 The guide was amazing and the history was very cool. The catacombs were less impressive than I had expected.
• Vmgoff2 Nov 2021 Dan the tour guide was PHENOMENAL!!! If you like history, this tour is for you. It’s very informative on the history of the Catholic Church, but Dan presented the information with humor & made all of the antidotes interesting. The catacombs wasn’t quite the ‘National Treasure’ idea I was expecting, but it was well worth the money and so interesting
• Jose N. Nov 2021 Our guide, Dan, was fantastic! He was so knowledgeable but still very approachable and open to questions. He made history come alive!
• Tim L. Oct 2021 Absolutely Incredible Experience!!! Our tour guide Ronny was AWESOME!!

The Basilica of St Patrick's Old Cathedral

It is a historic Roman Catholic church located in NYC. The tour "Catacombs by Candlelight" takes visitors underground to explore the church's historic catacombs, which date back to the early 1800s and...

Getting there

266 Mulberry Street, New York, 10012

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Discover the most thrilling secrets hidden at Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral Nolita/Little Italy!

Catacombs in New York City

Enjoy this fascinating 90 minute tour that introduces you to all of the hidden secrets of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. Enter off limits areas including the the two walled cemeteries and the catacombs beneath. For over 200 years, the Catacombs of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral have served as the final resting place for the faithful departed. This unique and historic place has been a silent witness to the many struggles and accomplishments of prominent New York Catholics. It is where Bishops rest beside noteworthy New Yorkers who have played defining roles in Catholic, New York and American history.

Cemeteries of Old St. Patrick's

The cemetery grounds of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral were initially established on May 23rd 1801 as a cemetery for St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church on the corner of Barclay and Church Streets in lower Manhattan.  Shortly after the Catholic Diocese of New York was formed by Pope Pius VII on April 8, 1808, the decision was made to build the Cathedral for Diocese here. You will get to visit both cemeteries that are normally off-limits to the public and hear stories of prominent Catholics laid to rest here when you take the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour.   Our cemeteries are still active for burial today.

Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral

The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral was not only the very first Catholic Cathedral of the Archdiocese of New York, it was also the Original St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This church is often confused with St. Patrick’s Cathedral across from Rockefeller Center in Midtown. This was also the very first Catholic Church in the United States named in honor of the Apostle of Ireland, St. Patrick. The Church would be elevated to a Basilica Minor status by Pope Benedict the XVII on December 5th 2010, 1 year after it’s 200th Anniversary. The interior of the Basilica is included in the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour.

Read about us in the New York Times

THE SECRETS OF A SACRED UNDERGROUND  article by Helene Stapinski, photos by Delvin Yalkin

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Please check-in for the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour at the red pin on the map above. We are located at 266 Mulberrry Street NY NY 10012. You can find us between Houston and Prince Streets in Little Italy/NOLITA. See the photo of the building we are in.

Catacombs By Candlelight

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Catholic Review

Inspiring the Archdiocese of Baltimore

Popular catacomb tours at New York cathedral offer lessons in city’s Catholic history

NEW YORK (OSV News) — “Catacombs by Candlelight” perhaps conjures images of a subterranean tour in Rome led by a guide wearing a headlamp. In New York, it’s the name of a revenue-generating history lesson told while exploring the cemetery and burial vaults of one of the city’s oldest Catholic churches. At the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, the tour’s tone is respectful and the candles are battery-operated LED models.

Frank Alfieri, the basilica’s director of cemetery and columbaria, said the tours were established in 2017 to communicate and monetize the historical significance of the property, which has been an active mainstay of the lower Manhattan area for more than 200 years.

The parish is bordered by Mulberry, Prince and Mott Streets in a gentrified area dubbed Nolita (for “North of Little Italy”). The land on which it stands was originally a farm purchased in 1801 for use as a cemetery by St. Peter’s Church, the city’s first Catholic parish, still located about one mile southwest on Barclay Street. When it opened in 1815, St. Patrick’s served as New York’s first cathedral until the new St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue was dedicated in 1879. In 2010, the Old Cathedral was named a basilica.

The Catacombs by Candlelight tours are operated by Thomas Wilkinson, principal of Tommy’s Tours. He and his 12 employees conduct eight 80-minute tours five days a week for groups as large as 40. On the other days, they accommodate special group requests from historians and parish, school and fraternal organizations.

Wilkinson said approximately half of the participants are foreign visitors, and its American participants include both New Yorkers and out-of-towners.

“This church is still pretty much unknown by many native New Yorkers, but the tours scaled up very quickly, and this is now a popular destination on par with other larger attractions in the city,” he said.

On a recent Sunday afternoon, guide Leo Goodman unlocked a door in a brick wall to usher his group into the cemetery. He pointed out the oldest legible headstone, dating from 1803.

He stopped at the site of the original grave of Haitian-born sainthood candidate Pierre Toussaint, who came to New York as an enslaved man. Toussaint became a successful hairdresser and devoted himself to helping the poor and sick. He was a 66-year parishioner of St. Peter’s Church and a donor to the building fund for Old St. Patrick’s.

Toussaint’s body was moved to the more familiar St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue in 1989 when the cause for his canonization was advanced. He was declared venerable in 1996.

Goodman backed up to a reinforced wall of the cemetery that was built in 1834 to protect the church and the graveyard from destruction by nativist Protestant gangs. Amid another wave of anti-Catholic riots in 1844, while a torchlight parade prepared to march on the church, then-Bishop John J. Hughes marshaled thousands of Irish immigrants to defend the cathedral. He stationed sharpshooters on the wall and warned the New York mayor of fiery consequences if Catholics were harmed. The violence was averted, and Bishop Hughes’ nickname “Dagger John” was secured.

Before descending to the catacombs, tourists got a chance to see the three wooly sheep who are seasonally employed to control the grass in the cemetery and, not coincidentally, attract the attention of passersby.

The catacombs were developed before the church was built above them, and Wilkinson surmised they may have generated the funds needed to begin the construction. They consist of 37 hermetically sealed family and group vaults arrayed along three 120-foot corridors. Most of the vaults have marble facades and bear the now-unfamiliar names of prominent 19th-century New York Catholics of Irish, German, French and Spanish heritage.

Wilkerson said the vaults’ walls are 30 inches thick and each may contain the mortal remains of as many as 15 people. Complete records are not available, and vaults have not been disturbed to confirm specific occupancy. A single ornate mausoleum was built for Gen. Thomas Eckert, a confidant of Abraham Lincoln and later an executive at Western Union. Eckert’s crypt is open to view and features imported ceiling tiles and original Edison light fixtures.

The catacombs were included in a restoration of the church that was completed in 2015. At that time, lighting, air circulation and walkways were improved. Niches for inurnment of cremated remains were added adjacent to the vaults. Similar aboveground niches were installed in the cemetery. Alfieri said some 500 of the 600 new niches have been sold.

Tours end in the soaring body of the church, where the influence of successive generations of Irish, Italian, Chinese and Hispanic immigrants is seen in art work and devotional details.

Tickets range from $30-37. According to Alfieri, the tours generate more than $25,000 a month for the programs and upkeep of the parish. They also are a form of evangelization.

“The tours have a historical and landmark perspective and we’re not reciting Scripture, but on a peripheral and very subliminal level, there is evangelization,” Alfieri said. “Any time you can get somebody into a church, there is a possibility you can evangelize, even nonverbally. A church gives you a small glimpse of heaven.”

Grace Pfeifle booked the tour because her sister Tess was visiting from Washington, she said. Self-described Irish Catholics, they said they were impressed with the engaging presentation of historical details, including the spirited defense of the cathedral by Irish clergy and laymen.

Emdree Anne Lacasse and Remy Lemelin, Catholics from Quebec, toured with family members. They said they appreciated the rich history of Catholics in New York and the seamless way in which the guide linked past and present.

Lemelin had anticipated the experience might be akin to visiting dank catacombs in Paris and Rome established in response to an epidemic. He said he was not disappointed at all to find clean dry walkways through the well-ventilated crypt.

And he was delighted by the cemetery sheep.

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St Patricks Cathedral Only Official tour. Come Visit one of North America's Most famous Landmark. The Official Tour is guided by Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Monsignor Robert Ritchie. Presented in English, French, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese. The Cathedral is open daily for the Official audio tour from 9:30am to 5pm.

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10 Catacombs & Ossuaries Around The World To Visit

• The Sedlec Ossuary in the Czech Republic features works of art made from human bones and is part of the oldest Cistercian monastery in the region.
• The catacombs of Paris are home to an exceptionally large amount of skeletons, with around 6 million skeletons in total.
• The Valley of the Kings in Egypt is a fascinating catacomb that provides insight into the rituals of ancient Egyptian civilization, housing tombs of pharaohs such as King Tutankhamun.

Catacombs and ossuaries can be rather creepy places to visit, but they also tell an important part of a place's culture and history. The most famous catacombs in the world must be the ancient catacombs of Rome , but there are plenty more around Europe and beyond.

Some catacombs are likely still lost to history, waiting to be rediscovered (new underground cities are still being discovered today, like the lost city of Matiate in Turkey ). Here are some of the most remarkable catacombs and ossuaries around the world to visit.

Related: Here Are 10 Roman Ruins & Structures Still In Use

Sedlec Ossuary

The Sedlec Ossuary is one of the greatest attractions to visit outside of Prague in the Czech Republic. The Seldec Ossaury is in the Cemetery Church and is part of the oldest Cistercian monastery in the region (and was founded in 1142).

Here, visitors can see human bones arranged into works of art adorning the church (including a remarkable coat of arms made from human bones).

• Location: Sedlec, Czech Republic (Near Prague)

Paris Catacombs

The catacombs or ossuaries of Paris are some of the most famous catacombs in Europe. The ossuaries occupy only a small part of the vast quarries under Paris and are home to some 6 million skeletons (an exceptionally large amount for any ossuary in the world).

The Paris Catacombs are open to the public, and there are public tours available.

• Location: Paris, France

Related: The Paris Catacombs Are The Final Resting Places Of Six Million People, And You Can Visit Them

Capuchin Catacombs

The Capuchin Catacombs are some of the most remarkable in Europe . Here, visitors can see many fully dressed mummies in the catacombs under the church in Sicily.

The first mummy was placed there in 1599 and the last in 1939, and there are some 8,000 corpses and 1,252 mummies organized into men, women, virgins, children, priests, monks, and professionals.

• Location: Palermo, Sicily

Valley Of The Kings

The Valley of the Kings is a series of rock-cut tombs built during the New Kingdom of Ancient Egypt over a period of 500 years. This is where many of the ancient Pharaohs were built (including King Tutankhamun), and the latest tombs found here were discovered in 2008.

The Valley of the Kings is one of the best catacombs in the world to visit to get a glimpse of the rituals of the ancient Egyptian civilization, and they date from after the Egyptians built the pyramids.

• Location: Thebes (Modern Luxor), Egypt

Related: Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Egypt's Mystical Valley Of The Kings

Mummy Museum Guanajuato

The Mummy Museum Guanajuato is one of the most unusual attractions in Mexico. The Mummy Museum Guanajuato has a number of naturally mummified bodies of people who died in an epidemic in the city in 1833.

Today, there are 59 mummies on display out of a total of 111 mummies.

• Location: Guanajuato, Mexico

Catacomb Of Callixtus

The Catacombs of Callixtus is perhaps the best known of the Catacombs of Rome. It is located along the Appian Way and is home to the Crypt of the Popes (dating from the 2nd to 4th centuries).

The Catacombs of Callixtus was only rediscovered in 1854, and they are open to the public today and are one of the best underground attractions of Ancient Rome.

• Location: Rome, Italy

Catacombs Of San Sebastiano

The Catacombs of San Sebastiano may be one of the smallest of the famous catacombs of Rome, but it is also one of the most accessible of Rome's catacombs. It once had four floors and was a Christian cemetery (although the fourth level is now almost completely destroyed).

It is also located along the Appian Way and is one of the few Christian cemeteries to have always been accessible.

Brno Ossuary

The Brno Ossuary is another remarkable ossuary in the Czech Republic. It was founded in the 17th century and expanded in the 18th century, and then forgotten about. It was only rediscovered in 2001 in the historic center of the historic center of the Czech city of Brno.

It is thought to have around 50,000 people interred (which would make it the second-largest ossuary after the Paris Ossuaries).

• Location: Brno, Czech Republic

Catacombs Of Kom Ash-Shuqqafa

Not all of the ancient historic archeological attractions of Egypt is from the Ancient Egyptian period. The Catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa are located in Alexandria and date from the Roman period.

These are made up of 3 levels and have some 300 bodies. They have a maze of passageways and rooms and represent a blend of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian elements.

• Location: Alexandria, Egypt

Related: See The Ancient Roman Catacombs Of Kom El Shoqafa In Egypt

Old St. Patrick Cathedral's Mini Catacombs

New York City's Old St. Patrick Cathedral offers a rare opportunity to see incredible catacombs in the United States. Old St. Patrick's Cathedral was consecrated in 1815 and is one of the historic attractions of Manhattan.

Underneath the cathedral are mini catacombs currently made up of 35 family crypts and 5 clerical vaults.

• Location: Manhattan, NYC, United States

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New York Today

The 5 boro bike tour: tough to arrange, tough to finish.

The organizer of the event, which takes place on Sunday, says it’s harder to stage than the New York City Marathon.

By James Barron

Good morning. It’s Friday. Today we’ll look at what it takes to stage the Five Boro Bike Tour, scheduled for Sunday. We’ll also get details about an appellate decision in a case that could force changes in policies at public schools with selective admissions policies.

Kenneth Podziba began by saying that it was harder to stage the Five Boro Bike Tour than it was to stage the New York City Marathon.

He is the president and chief executive of Bike New York, a nonprofit group that promotes happenings like the bike tour, which is scheduled for Sunday.

Then he said that he did not want to sound as if he was “bashing or belittling the Road Runners” — the New York Road Runners, the organization that puts on the marathon, the largest of its kind in the world. But Podziba did not, um, backpedal. Mounting the bike tour, the largest of its kind, “is a lot harder,” he said.

How so? Both events cover much of the same ground, from the 2.6-mile-long Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge to highways like the Franklin D. Roosevelt Drive and the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. But Podziba said that bicyclists were different from runners. They face hazards that marathoners do not have to worry about.

That is why the bike tour has blowtorches at the ready.

The volunteers carrying them look for expansion joints — narrow connectors between strips of pavement that give the concrete room to move. Only a little, to be sure. But there are two long expansion joints on the F.D.R. that go in the same direction as the traffic, creating a potential hazard for cyclists who do not see them in time to swerve away, Podziba said.

On the Third Avenue Bridge, where the expansion joints run across the road, “the gaps are large enough” to pose problems, he said. Runners would probably not notice the unevenness, but a bicycle rider could go over the handlebars if a tire hit at the wrong angle.

The solution? Put tape over the expansion joints.

The tape will not stick if the joints are wet, Podziba said, so on a damp day the bike tour volunteers go out with blowtorches to dry the joints — carefully, said Podziba, who was the city’s sports commissioner under two mayors, Rudolph Giuliani and Michael Bloomberg, and served as deputy commissioner of the Taxi and Limousine Commission.

After looking at the rainy forecast for Sunday, he said that “it looks like we will need to use the blowtorches.” (A spokeswoman for the New York Road Runners said that “we don’t employ this method” and noted that her group worked with the Department of Transportation “to ensure the marathon course is safe for all participants.” Bike New York does, too, Podziba said. The two groups also coordinate with other city agencies, like the Police Department. And Bike New York removes the tape from the expansion joints once the cyclists have ridden by.)

And then there are the potholes.

Before the marathon, the Road Runners can put a cone over a pothole, Podziba said, but, he added, “we can’t.” The bike tour has volunteers who wave riders around potholes. Volunteers also work to smooth out potential bottlenecks like one that Podziba was concerned about on Kent Avenue in Brooklyn, where he said a lane was partly closed for construction work. The bike tour will close that lane all the way so that riders do not have to snake in and out on Sunday.

Different starting points

The two events start in different places — the marathon on Staten Island, the bike tour in Manhattan, at Church Street and Franklin Street in TriBeCa. (The 32,000 riders have been divided into six groups, called waves, that will pedal off at different times on Sunday morning.)

They also end in different places — the marathon in Central Park, the bike tour at Fort Wadsworth, on Staten Island, where there is an after-party.

The bike tour now draws so many riders that Fort Wadsworth “isn’t big enough,” Podziba said, adding, “We need a natural flow of people leaving.”

There is another difference between the bike tour and the marathon. The bicyclists can get a blessing on Saturday at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.

It is something the cathedral has offered cyclists, but not runners, for more than 20 years.

“But we could,” said the dean of the cathedral, the Very Rev. Patrick Malloy, who will officiate at the service.

He will sprinkle holy water on each bicycle before the cyclists take “a festive lap inside the cathedral,” walking the length of the nave while ringing the bells on their bikes. Officials from the Department of Transportation will also be at the cathedral for a helmet giveaway for cyclists who need one — and on Sunday, they will. Bike New York says that helmetless riders will be asked to leave.

It will be a partly sunny day in the mid-60s. The evening will be partly cloudy, with temperatures in the high 40s.

ALTERNATE-SIDE PARKING

Suspended today (Orthodox Good Friday).

The latest New York news

Menendez federal trial : Senator Robert Menendez’s lawyers want a psychiatrist to testify at his corruption trial about the impact of his father’s death by suicide. Prosecutors are objecting .

Seizing Hamilton Hall: The people who took over a building at Columbia University were part of an offshoot of a larger group that had been camping out in an unauthorized pro-Palestinian demonstration. At least a few of those arrested after the university called the police to Hamilton Hall were outsiders, not students or others who appeared to be affiliated with Columbia .

Former police officer gets prison time : Wayne Peiffer was sentenced to 36 months in prison for protecting two sex-trafficking and prostitution businesses in exchange for free sexual services that were sometimes performed at a police station in Brewster, N.Y.

Veteran lied about Purple Heart, U.S. says : A woman in upstate New York was arrested and charged with fraudulently claiming to be a recipient of the military award given to those wounded or killed in action, federal prosecutors said.

Protesters and anonymity : Doxxing and other consequences have led many student protesters on college campuses to hide their identities. That choice has been polarizing .

The Trump Trial

Lawyers and their roles: In cross-examination during Donald Trump’s criminal trial, his defense team cast Stormy Daniels’s former lawyer as a shakedown artist, and the jury listened to a recording of Michael Cohen, a former fixer and personal lawyer for Trump, discussing a hush-money deal arranged by The National Enquirer.

What to know : Two weeks after the 12 jurors were impaneled, the case is clipping along, with a half-dozen witnesses heard from. Here are five takeaways from Thursday’s testimony .

Lawsuit challenging school admissions moves forward

A lawsuit that could force changes in policies at New York City public schools with selective admissions policies is moving forward .

A New York appellate court ruled that a lower court judge had erred in dismissing the case.

At issue is what the lawsuit calls “pernicious racial inequality” in city schools, where students are sorted into two different academic tracks starting as early as kindergarten. The lawsuit argues that the system makes racial inequality worse by assigning children to either general elementary school classes or to specialized gifted and talented classes. Children on the gifted-and-talented track are often channeled into selected middle and high schools.

The lawsuit says that many Black and Latino students face “systematic exclusion” from the gifted and selective pipelines and are denied a sound education, as promised by the New York State Constitution. In 2021, when the lawsuit was filed, gifted and talented classes for elementary school students were about 75 percent white and Asian American, and there were relatively few gifted programs in predominantly Black and Latino neighborhoods.

Mark Rosenbaum, one of the lawyers who filed the lawsuit, said the decision allowing the case to proceed was “the beginning of the end of the two-tiered education system in New York City.”

City education officials said on Thursday that they were reviewing the court’s decision. But Daniel Weisberg, the first deputy chancellor, pointed to plans to open nine new schools in the fall — including some in underserved areas — in an effort, he said, to give “everybody the best opportunity to get a great education.”

METROPOLITAN diary

Off Broadway

Dear Diary:

My friend was acting in an Off Broadway play. My wife, two boys and I went to see it.

Unfortunately, we got lost on the way and were 45 minutes late in arriving.

As we approached the box office to get our tickets, the clerk asked if we were the Spanos.

Yes, we said.

Thank God, he replied. We were waiting for you to start.

— Joseph Spano

Illustrated by Agnes Lee. Send submissions here and read more Metropolitan Diary here .

Glad we could get together here. See you on Monday. — J.B.

P.S. Here’s today’s Mini Crossword and Spelling Bee . You can find all our puzzles here .

Melissa Guerrero, Troy Closson and Ed Shanahan contributed to New York Today. You can reach the team at [email protected].

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James Barron writes the New York Today newsletter, a morning roundup of what’s happening in the city. More about James Barron