Designed by architect George F. Schreiber, the Indianapolis Scottish Rite Cathedral in downtown Indianapolis is a magnificent example of Tudor-Gothic architecture. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the cathedral is one of the largest Masonic buildings in the world, and has been described as one of the finest examples of Neo-Gothic architecture in the United States.
The Scottish Rite Cathedral is a Tudor period Gothic structure that is replete with Masonic symbolism. Brilliantly colored art glass windows, richly carved woodwork, and ornately patterned ceilings combine to form an opulent blend of Masonic symbolism and supreme artistry.
The symbolic essence of the Cathedral is exemplified by the exacting dimensions incorporated throughout the building’s design. Inspired by Christ’s time on earth, as well as the thirty-three degrees of Scottish Rite Masonry, the architect drafted a plan of using a basic measurement of thirty-three feet and multiples thereof. The Tile Room pictured above is 33′ long x 33′ wide x 33′ high, just one example of the architect’s use of the number thirty-three.
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The Scottish Rite’s ballroom frequently hosts weddings, proms, and other events served by the in-house caterer, which I was told starts at $20,000. Not cheap…but a spectacular backdrop for any event. They offer tours daily and three people told me I couldn’t take “professional” photos, meaning they didn’t want me setting up a tripod to shoot. Always the salesman I know that every “no” leads to a “yes” and I was able to find a very nice woman who lead me around the interior to set up for a couple of shots.
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