When my brother-in-law told us his wedding venue would be the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the University of Notre Dame, we knew we were about to be somewhere special. This historic neo-gothic church is one of the tallest chapels in the country and features intricate gold detailing and stunning white columns supporting enormous vaulted ceilings and painted frescoes.
Neo-gothic architecture strives to recreate the ornate stylings and stretched, vertical forms used centuries earlier. Buildings like this are great examples of how materials and form can evoke a sense of historical authenticity even if building techniques have moved beyond constraints that informed the original style.
The basilica’s main entry commands a long vantage point on the campus and its many spires and towers reach towards the sky and create a feeling of regal austerity.
We didn’t get to hear the organ during the ceremony, but its tremendous scale and beautiful detailing made it a wonderful backdrop at the entrance of the basilica.
The basilica has one of the largest collections of French-made stained glass windows of any church in the world, and the austere exterior gave way to brilliantly colored panes once we made our way inside.