Since 1879 St. Patrick's Cathedral had its original High Altar which served the Cathedral well. It wasn't until 1942 when the design and architecture of the original High Altar was brought into question that it was replaced with the magnificent High Altar and Baldachino we have today.  

James Renwick, the architect of St. Patrick's, designed the Cathedral as a Gothic Cathedral. However, the altar that served the Cathedral for so long did not reflect the beauty of the Gothic style seen throught the building. Because of this, the new High Altar was designed by Maginnis & Walsh to resemble this Gothic architecture as well as serve the Liturgical needs of the church. The previous Altar was given to Fordham University's Church and still stands there today. 

Along with the new Altar, came the beautiful bronze Baldachino that rises above the Altar. In reference to the Baldachino above the High Altar, A. Welby Pugin has said, "A ciborium or canopy is beyond doubt the most correct manner of covering an altar and at the same time the most beautiful". 

The image to the right shows the majestic High Altar & Baldachino that continues to serve St. Patrick's Cathedral today. As an iconic New York City Landmark, the Altar stands tall and welcomes all who enter "America's Parish Church".