NEW YORK
FACT EXCHANGE

Manhattan · NYC landmark

Church of Notre Dame

Morningside Drive at West 114th Street · Manhattan, New York City

Look for the church's distinctive grotto and French architectural character; respect services and posted visitor access.

Save and Boost open this place in the interactive map. An account is needed to save; Boost opens its options before payment.

Church of Notre Dame
Photo: ajay_suresh · CC BY 2.0

NYFE Summary

Notre Dame began as a chapel serving French-speaking Catholics. Its grotto was modeled on Lourdes, the French pilgrimage site, and survived the expansion of the church around it. The grotto now stands behind the main altar, preserving the focus of the earlier chapel.

The marble altar came from France, with a matching pulpit and altar rail. Its reliefs depict the Annunciation, Nativity and Coronation of Mary, and the figures’ halos were designed with electric lighting. Plans for a high dome were eventually abandoned, leaving the lower roof seen today. The building remains an active parish church.

NYFE summary from the official history and visitor sources linked below.

Plan a visit

Check the operator’s current opening, admission and access information before travelling. Historic status does not guarantee public access to every interior.

Official visitor information ↗

Sources & further reading

    More to explore in Manhattan