Cathedral of St Helena – A Little Bit of Austria in Montana

Seen from a distance the Cathedral of St. Helena is impressive, but when you get inside, impressive doesn’t begin to convey the beauty of the neo-Gothic Cathedral.

Located in Helena, Montana (530 North Ewing Street), the Cathedral is modeled after the Votive Church of the Sacred Heart in Vienna, Austria.  It was opened in 1914 (when the first service were held), but wasn’t finished, however, until 1924.   Although the Cathedral was seriously damaged in an earthquake in 1935, it was reconstructed preserving both the impressive architecture and adding earthquake-proofing construction.  It still maintains an impressive and imposing presence in Helena.

As you walk up the stone stairs leading into the Cathedral, take a moment a look behind you at the downtown view of the city.  Then turn back to enter the cathedral, looking up at the domed ceiling an around at the pillars and stained glass windows.  The 59 stained glass windows came from Bavaria, and include a set of 37 that tell a story starting with the fall of Adam and Eve continuing to the years of the Church in the early 1900’s.

Since its repair after the earthquake, the cathedral has been completely restored and renovated, including adding some gilding in the interior.  It continues to be carefully and lovingly maintained, including upkeep and repairs to the stained glass windows.  The most recent renovation (2002-03) resulted in the addition of a gift shop and socials halls on the lower level, and the renovation of the sanctuary, chapel and addition of a baptistry on the upper level.

With a little luck, your Cathedral visit will be complete with music from its Pipe Organ.  It is as impressive to view as it is to just sit and soak up its beautiful music. 

The Cathedral is open for viewing Monday – Friday, 7 am – 6 pm; Saturday, 8:30 am – 6 pm, and Sunday, 7:30 am – 6 pm.  Summer hours may be shorter.  Guided tours are given Tuesday – Thursday at during the summer.  Reservations are required for tours at other times of the year (406-442-5825).

The Cathedral is a place of worship, and all are welcome to attend.  Check the mass schedule for details.

Admission is free, although donations are gratefully accepted.

Photo credit:  Cathedral of St. Helena

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