National Cathedral The official name of the National Cathedral is the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul. Although it is an Episcopal Church, the Cathedral’s constitution states that it is to be a "house of prayer for all people, forever free and open to all who may enter its doors." Interesting Facts: President Wilson, buried in the Cathedral, is the only President to be laid to rest within the District of Columbia. The Cathedral is a 14th Century Gothic-style structure, shaped like a Latin Cross, and is the sixth largest church in the world. The west Rose window contains over 10,000 pieces of glass, and the Space Window has a piece of the moon in it! One of the gargoyles located on the northwest corner of the west tower is Darth Vader, of Star Wars fame. The Central tower is 676 feet above sea level, making it the highest point in the District of Columbia. Links: Washington National Cathedral Washington, DC – National Cathedral Timeline   1898 1907 1912 1968 Land is purchased to build the National Cathedral The cornerstone is laid and construction begins. Bethlehem Chapel becomes the first part of the Cathedral to be completed. On March 31st, Martin Luther King preaches his last Sunday sermon in the Cathedral. Five days later, a memorial service is held for him there. 1990 The Cathedral is completed.                 Copyright © 2006 WorldStrides  Legal Policy  Privacy Policy  Terms & Conditions