St. Cecilia's Cathedral

701 North 40th Street
1901/1959
Architect: Thomas Kimball
Spanish Renaissance Revival Style
Designated Omaha Landmark: May 22, 1979

Architecturally, St. Cecilia’s Cathedral is a fine and exceptionally early example of the Spanish Renaissance revival style, a style prevalent in Mexico and South America, but largely unexplored in the United States in the early part of this century. In fact, the style did not become prominent in the United States until after the Panama-California Exposition at San Diego in 1915.

Designed by eminent American architect Thomas Rogers Kimball, St. Cecilia’s ranks as one of the ten largest cathedrals in the United States. Kimball began plans for the building in 1901 and construction commenced in 1905. Enough work was completed to hold services by 1916. The Cathedral was consecrated in 1959 upon completion of the domed cupolas atop the twin towers.

Majestically sited on one of the city’s highest points, St. Cecilia’s Cathedral is a dominant feature of Omaha’s cityscape.

(This building is also listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places and is located in a National Register Historic District.)