The University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning is the fourth tallest educational building in the entire world. At 163 meters and 42 floors, the Cathedral can be seen from every corner of Oakland.
Commonly referred to as “Cathy,” the Cathedral of Learning is one of only two educational skyscrapers in the world. Cathy boasts an impressive display of gothic architecture and is staple of Pittsburgh pride. The construction of the Cathedral was done under the advisement of Chancellor John G. Bowman and was completed in October of 1934. The construction was designed as an architectural emulation of Wagner’s symphony, The Valkyrie. Much like the symphony, which reaches higher and higher heights, hitting climax after climax, the Cathedral has several different interconnected columns that are each taller than the last. The Cathedral of Learning is also embraced by the Pittsburgh community for its cultural heritage and inclusiveness.
One of the main concepts of the Cathedral was the idea of having so called “Nationality Rooms.” These rooms are decorated in accordance to traditional classrooms from various ethnic groups and symbolize the diversity of the Pittsburgh community. The rooms are open to the public and the University offers tours that include extensive historical insight. The Nationality Rooms include 30 different nationalities and have seasonally alternating decor.
There is no need to book tickets in advance and the Cathedral, and its neighboring sites are sure to provide a fascinating day of cultural and historical insight into Secret Pittsburgh.