New York City Catacombs Tour

NYC Catacombs: A Bit of History

Constructed between 1809 and 1815, the catacombs in the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral were built to be a prestigious burial site for the cathedral's bishops, clergy, benefactors and trustees. These underground chambers house 35 family crypts and 5 clerical vaults, each designed in various architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic.

Notable individuals interred here include Bishop John Connolly, Congressman John Kelly, the Delmonico family, General Thomas Eckert, and philanthropist Countess Annie Leary. Unique features of the catacombs include original Thomas Edison light fixtures and Rafael Guastavino tilework.

For over 2 centuries, access was restricted to clergy, workers, and family members. However, in February 2017, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral began offering public candlelight tours, revealing the rich history of New York's Catholic heritage.

Tour NYC's Best Kept Secret

If you want to see New York's catacombs for yourself, join us on this candlelight tour. Our journey will begin at the Old Chancery of the Archdiocese, located at 266 Mulberry Street, New York City. After meeting up at the indicated time, we'll make our way to the North Graveyard, the South Graveyard and the courtyard outside of the basilica.

Then, we'll head into the Basilica and venture into the catacombs of this historic Catholic church to unveil its hidden secrets. Welcome to New York City's fascinating underground world! Inside, we'll explore areas typically off-limits to the public. This behind-the-scenes access allows us to delve into the rich history of the church and its significant role in New York's past.

The undisputed highlight of the tour is of course the chance to explore New York City's unique Catholic catacombs. Inside, we'll connect with history as we visit the final resting places of notable New Yorkers who have shaped American Catholic history.

After an intriguing hour and 20 minutes, we'll conclude our tour in the Undercroft, at the lower rear of the Basilica, leaving you with unforgettable memories of New York's hidden catacombs. Until next time!