The Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, Kentucky: A Pilgrimage Favorite
Some churches leave a mark that lingers. For me, the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, Kentucky, is one of those places. From the first time I visited, I was struck by its Gothic facade, rising like a prayer against the Kentucky sky. Locals affectionately call it the “Notre Dame” of America, and the nickname fits. The rose window, the twin towers, and the sculptures of saints carved into the stone all speak of beauty and faith. Every time I see it, I feel like I am standing before something both timeless and alive. (Bonus points if you can see it illuminated at night!)
I have returned to this cathedral basilica many times with my family in tow. Each visit feels like a pilgrimage, a journey back to a place that draws me in again and again. My children marvel at the statues outside, asking which saint is which, while I linger with the facade a little longer. There is something about those saints in stone that whispers to me: holiness is possible, even here, even now.
Inside, the cathedral is no less breathtaking. Gothic arches soar overhead, guiding the eyes upward, while stained-glass windows fill the nave with dazzling light. The interior captures everything I love about Gothic architecture. It stretches heavenward in a way that makes you feel both small and invited into something greater. Every time I step inside, I am reminded that this space is not only art but prayer in stone and glass.
One of the most unique treasures of this cathedral lies behind the main altar: a remarkable collection of more than 300 relics. Some are bones, some are drops of blood, all belonging to holy men and women who once walked this earth. Standing before them, the communion of saints feels tangible. I kneel and know I am not praying alone. My children often whisper questions about these relics, and I tell them that saints are family too, still alive in heaven and close to us in these holy places.
This church is also unique because it is both a cathedral and a basilica. As the cathedral, it is the bishop’s church, the mother church of the diocese. As a basilica, it carries a title given by Rome to recognize its sacred heritage and artistic beauty. That dual honor sets it apart, reminding visitors that this building is more than just architecture - it is a living witness to faith.
Every time I leave, I carry something new with me. Sometimes it is the memory of how sunlight hit the stained glass at just the right angle. Sometimes it is the hush of the relics, reminding me that the saints are near. And sometimes it is simply the sight of those stone saints outside, carved reminders that holiness can be lived in ordinary days.
The Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption remains my third favorite among all the cathedrals I have visited. Its beauty and depth draw me back again and again. If you find yourself in Kentucky, do not pass through too quickly. Stop. Walk inside. Pray. And let this cathedral basilica leave its mark on you, too.
Be sure to follow Amanda on Instagram for more cathedral travels! See Amanda's favorite Cathedrals here.