The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, more commonly known as “The Baltimore Basilica,” was the first cathedral built in the United States. Archbishop John Carroll conceived of the idea of building a grand cathedral in Baltimore in 1792, but his plans didn’t come to fruition until the early 1800s. And in spite of being a poor diocese, Carroll believed this cathedral was important to build because of “Amplitude.” To make sure it was a building that would be respected by all, Carroll secured the services of the most respected and important architect of the time, Henry Latrobe. Latrobe is considered the father of American architecture. At the time he worked on this new cathedral his other major project was the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Listen to learn more about this important house of worship.