Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Resting behind an opulent French-Gothic Revival visage, the cathedral is rightly situated in the heart of the city. Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart was constructed over the course of nearly a century, specifically built to feature views of the mountains to the west and downtown Manhattan to the east. First proposed in 1859, the cathedral's cornerstone was finally set forty years later. It wasn't until 1954 that the church was completed and consecrated. Pope John Paul II visited this gargantuan cathedral in 1995, performing an evening prayer that earned the cathedral the rank of basilica. Rightly dubbed as the Monument of Faith, this elegant basilica is adorned with sharp arches and glorious chandeliers giving way to the stunning altar. The Cathedral Basilica regularly holds concerts that are open to the public, played on the largest pipe organ ever created by the Schantz Organ Company. Commanding Newark's beautiful landscape, the basilica is one of the most treasured edifices of the city.