Asheville, NC, October 22, 2025
News Summary
A ceremonial event was held to mark the beginning of a major restoration project for St. Lawrence Basilica in Asheville, attracting around 150 attendees. The basilica, known for its exquisite Catalan vaulting and elliptical dome, is an architectural treasure on the National Register of Historic Places. The restoration, led by John G. Waite Associates, aims to address critical repairs and preserve its historical significance, with $6.4 million already raised towards the $7.7 million initial phase. This project is expected to take several years and cost around $30 million in total.
Asheville, NC – A ceremonial event marking the beginning of a massive restoration project for St. Lawrence Basilica was held on October 17, attracting around 150 parishioners and community members. This event, dubbed the “Restoration Celebration,” included speeches, prayers, tours, and a choral work composed by Rafael Guastavino Sr., the basilica’s original architect, who is also buried there.
St. Lawrence Basilica, a significant landmark in downtown Asheville, is part of the Diocese of Charlotte and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features one of the largest elliptical domes in North America and is renowned for its distinctive Catalan vaulting and Guastavino’s tile and masonry techniques. Restoration project manager Shannon Brown emphasized the basilica’s architectural significance, calling it “one of the most important churches in the United States.”
The restoration will be overseen by New York-based architecture firm John G. Waite Associates, known for its extensive historic preservation experience. Over $6.4 million has been raised to date towards the initial phase of what is expected to be a $7.7 million project. The first phase involves replacing the copper-clad dome roof, installing new storm drains, and addressing damages incurred from Tropical Storm Helene. Additional tasks will include replacing gutters, repairing the oculus skylight, and stabilizing masonry above a side chapel.
The entire restoration project is anticipated to take several years, with a total estimated cost of around $30 million. In September 2024, the basilica received a $750,000 “Save America’s Treasures” grant from the National Park Service to aid in renovations.
Guastavino’s architectural contributions are recognized nationwide, with his work featured in notable landmarks such as Carnegie Hall and Grand Central Station. The basilica’s design and cultural significance have earned it a reputation as an irreplaceable architectural landmark, according to local historians and members of the Guastavino Alliance.
Attendees at the celebration expressed appreciation for the beauty and grandeur of the basilica, which plays a vital role in the local Catholic community and serves as a point of interest for visitors. Monsignor Roger Arnsparger highlighted the church’s role in evangelization, thanks to its prominent downtown location. The community continues to demonstrate awe and admiration for the basilica, as visitors often express amazement at its architectural splendor.
Key Features of St. Lawrence Basilica
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Architect | Rafael Guastavino Sr. |
| Location | Downtown Asheville, NC |
| Listing | National Register of Historic Places |
| Domes | One of the largest elliptical domes in North America |
| Initial Restoration Cost | $7.7 million |
| Funds Raised | $6.4 million |
| Total Project Cost | Approximately $30 million |
FAQ
When did the restoration project kickoff for St. Lawrence Basilica?
A ceremonial event to mark the beginning of a massive restoration project for St. Lawrence Basilica was held on October 17 in Asheville, NC.
How much money has been raised for the initial phase of the restoration project?
Over $6.4 million has been raised towards the initial phase of the project, which has a total estimated budget of $7.7 million.
What will the first phase of the restoration include?
The first phase of restoration will involve the replacement of the copper-clad dome roof, new storm drains, and repairs to damage incurred from Tropical Storm Helene.
What is the expected total cost of the restoration project?
The entire restoration project is anticipated to take several years, potentially costing around $30 million in total.
What grant was received to aid in the renovations?
In September 2024, the basilica received a $750,000 “Save America’s Treasures” grant from the National Park Service to aid in renovations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Asheville: A City of Resilience and Rich History
Marion, North Carolina, Receives Generous Gift from Philanthropist
Additional Resources
- OSV News: Massive Restoration for North Carolina Basilica
- WLOS: St. Lawrence Basilica Restoration Celebration
- Catholic News Agency: Basilica Receives Grant
- WNC Magazine: Saving the Basilica
- Mountain X: Historic Church to Rebuild
- Wikipedia: St. Lawrence Basilica
- Google Search: St. Lawrence Basilica
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
