In 1868, Pope Pius IX created the Diocese of Columbus while a new church was under construction. In recognition of its new status, the partial building was torn down and this more elaborate, Gothic Revival design was completed in 1872. It is constructed primarily of sandstone and limestone. These natural materials glow in the sunlight with hues of amber, cream and yellows. Columbus’s first bishop, Bishop Rosecrans, was largely responsible for building this magnificent structure. However, one day after the Cathedral’s consecration, he died and was subsequently buried below the main altar.
