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Gargoyles return: Cathedral's $8M restoration complete
9 May
Summary
- 58 new terra cotta gargoyles and chimeras were installed.
- The $8 million restoration focused on the cathedral's exterior.
- Custom carved limestone from Indiana was sourced for repairs.
The Cathedral Basilica of The Assumption in Covington has concluded a significant $8 million restoration, marking its third major overhaul in 125 years. This extensive project concentrated solely on the cathedral's exterior, breathing new life into its historic facade. A key highlight of the restoration is the installation of 58 new terra cotta gargoyles and chimeras, safeguarding the iconic structure.
The restoration process involved meticulous documentation using 3D laser scanning to create architectural drawings, as none existed previously. Experts spent days suspended by a crane to meticulously record every detail of the building's condition. The project addressed extensive damage caused by historical construction methods, particularly the expansion and contraction of iron components within the stone.
To ensure historical accuracy, custom-carved limestone was sourced from the same quarry in Bedford, Indiana, used during the cathedral's original construction in 1894. The delicate terra cotta process for recreating the grotesques was a unique undertaking for the project's team. This "100-year project" aims to preserve the cathedral's heritage for future generations.
