Old St. Vincent's Church
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Built in 1853, Old St. Vincent's Church, located at 131 South Main Street in Cape Girardeau, is a beautifully restored Gothic Catholic Church that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The church is of Renaissance architecture of the 15th century in Italy. It is predominately Gothic with some Roman influence as is seen in the many arches. An unusual feature is the over 100 medieval design plaster masks portraying characters from the Miracle and Mystery plays, such as Good and Evil, and Comedy and Tragedy. 
The pews are original as are the altars, along with the communion rail with its unusual wrought iron design, windows, frames and casings; all dating to the 1850's.
The massive 3 1/4 inch thick doors are hand carved.
Very few churches of this style exist in America. It is truly surprising that a church of this magnitude and design was built in 1853 in the then small, quaint community of Cape Girardeau. Simply stated, Old St. Vincent's is beautiful, and the architecture is breathtaking and rare.
But there is something else about the church, something that cannot be physically touched, only felt. The gothic arches and the graceful lines invite one to prayer and fellowship. Old St. Vincent's Church is designated as a "Chapel of Ease" and hosts a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year. Mass is still celebrated every Sunday at 10:00 a.m.
The public is invited to tour Old St. Vincent's Church on Saturdays and Sundays, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day, from the first of May through the end of September. The church is located on the corner of William and Main Street. While admission is free, donations are appreciated and will be used to preserve Old St. Vincent's for future generations to come.
For additional information visit their website or write or call St. Mary's Cathedral, 615 William Street, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703-6242, (573) 335-9347. For tour information contact the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau, 400 Broadway, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701-5622, 800-777-0068.
Be sure to view the Old St. Vincent's Photo Gallery here.
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