catacombs candlelight tour nyc

Catacombs by Candlelight Tour In New York

How would you like to explore the only Catholic catacombs in New York and discover the rich history and spirituality hidden beneath the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral?

Join tens of thousands of thrilled spectators who have already enjoyed this ⭐ 4.6-star fascinating tour. Follow your guide behind the scenes and discover the hidden areas that are off-limits to regular visitors.

The Catacombs Tour

Only catholic catacombs in new york city.

Cemeteries of Old St. Patrick's

Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral NYC

Catacombs by Candlelight tour Reviews

Great experience, the tour guide was very knowledgeable, the grounds are very well preserved, It was a great way to learn more about our city!

Very informative historical tour of the cemeteries, Basilica and Catacombs! Robert, our guide was terrific.

The guide made all the difference! All the history behind the tour was amazing. Could not recommend enough!

The tour was lovely. Our guide answers all our questions and really took his time. It didn’t feel rushed at all. Highly recommend!!!

Really interesting historical content and contemporary opportunities at this extraordinary portal. Our guide was great! Thank you!

Such a cool tour and worth every penny! We got insider information, saw places that were closed off to the general public. Tommy, our tour guide, was especially helpful; he answered every question we had and was so informed! I HIGHLY recommend this tour to anyone visiting NYC!

An amazing history lesson was given prior to seeing the catacombs. It sets the stage perfectly because once you eventually walk down your already well aware of the reasoning why they are there.

Great tour! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, as well as, fun! It was so interesting to learn more about NYC from the cultural and religious perspective. I grew up in the city but I had no idea this was something available to do at St. Patrick’s. I definitely recommend this tour!

Great tour! It was very informative and the tour guide was excellent. The guide took the time to answer all questions and was very knowledgeable.

Excellent tour! Will tell friends that it’s worth the money.

Practical Info

• Thursdays to Mondays, 10:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
• 👉 As this tour takes place in an active church, some time slots may be canceled with short notice due to weddings, funerals, etc
• Duration:  1 hour and 20 minutes
• Location:  266 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012
• Age requirement:  4+
• Accesibility:  the experience is ADA compliant
• Dress code:  Since this a sacred space and active Basilica, visitors are required dress respectfully when visiting. Therefore anyone wearing clothing that is profane or disrespectful will be turned away. Under no circumstances will anyone wearing a costume of any type be permitted to take the tour.
• Price:  starting from $32.00
• This tour will take place rain or shine. Please be aware that half of the tour is outside and there are no umbrellas or ponchos available on site

Where's the Catacombs tour NYC located?

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THE EXPERIENCE

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MISCELLANEOUS

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Brave Enough To Explore The Catacombs Of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral By Candlelight?

You can now discover the most thrilling secrets hidden beneath NYC’s very own streets!

Head to Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Nolita for a one-of-a-kind tour of its historic catacombs , an experience every local (and tourist) should check out. This underground space used to be sealed off from the public, but those brave enough can now explore it by candlelight. The Basilica of Saint Patrick’s Old Cathedral (or Old St. Patrick’s), located at 266 Mulberry Street between Prince and Houston Streets in Nolita, is a little over 200 years old and has seen plenty during that time.

Get tickets here to uncover the rich history hidden below the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral!

If you’ve never been inside you’ll have to make a point to do so because it’s a stunning church that recently underwent a $15 million restoration including its classic Henry Erben Organ. However, walking through the cold crypts by candlelight —as they would’ve back in 1815, when it was built—will be the most enlightening part of your time exploring the building.

On this tour you’ll spend 80 minutes beneath a New York City landmark on a stroll through the city’s past, which until recently was closed off and forgotten. This unique Catacombs by Candlelight experience  shines a light on the final resting place of notable New Yorkers and the achievements and hurdles faced by New York’s historic Catholic residents.

Explore hidden areas of the only Catholic catacombs in New York City that are otherwise off-limits to visitors.

Since its opening, the Catacombs by Candlelight tour has become widely popular and should be at the top of your list if you’re visiting the city. If you’re not convinced, here are some reviews of the experience:

The tour guide was awesome, and the tour itself was amazing. Would definitely recommend! It was a great experience! Learned so much about New York in the 1800’s. Dan was a phenomenal tour guide and elevated the whole experience. Leo was a fantastic tour guide! Exceptional knowledge of NY history and was fun and engaging throughout! Would definitely recommend!

Catacombs by Candlelight is open to all ages, and tickets start at $37 for adults ($32 for children and seniors). Each tour lasts 80 minutes, and guests are encouraged to show up for check-in 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

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Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

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Explore one of the oldest museums in the world and see relics from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome with the guidance of an expert. Keep your eyes peeled for the illustrious Rosetta Stone, the iconic Parthenon sculptures, and the fascinating Egyptian mummies. Don't forget to take in the stunning glass ceiling of the Great Court as well. Get your tickets now for the British Museum Guided Tour!

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The Basilica of St Patrick's Old Cathedral

It is a historic Roman Catholic church located in NYC. The tour "Catacombs by Candlelight" takes visitors underground to explore the church's historic catacombs, which date back to the early 1800s and...

Getting there

266 Mulberry Street, New York, 10012

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Discover the most thrilling secrets hidden beneath New York’s oldest and very first Catholic Cathedral!

Go behind-the-scenes at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in Little Italy and see areas of the church grounds that are otherwise barred from the public during this 90-minute catacomb group tour.

For over 200 years, the catacombs of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral have served as the final resting place for the faithful departed. This historic place has witnessed the many struggles and accomplishments of prominent New York Catholics.

Gain access to off-limits areas, including the two walled cemeteries and narthex below the sanctuary. Experience the only active Catholic Catacombs in New York City.   See where bishops rest alongside prominent New York Catholics, such as the Delmonico Family and the first resident Bishop of New York, Bishop John Connolly. This labyrinth of vaults belongs largely to bankers, lawyers, captains of industry, merchants, political candidates, and even to a Civil War-era general, Thomas Eckert.

Unveil the mysteries of one of the most alluring cultural enclaves in New York City

  Explore Manhattan’s Chinatown without worrying about getting lost along its narrow streets and corridors and visit spaces that are normally off limits to the public.   After checking in at the Chinatown Little Italy Information Kiosk on the corner of Baxter and Canal streets we will head down to the old Five Points neighborhood brought back to fame by Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York.  This was the cauldron that gave birth to Manhattan’s Chinatown in the mid 1800’s.  We tour the southern portion of Historic Chinatown as far south as Kimlau Square and wind our way through the labyrinth of winding roads stopping at places like Confucius Plaza, a Taoist Temple, the Famed Doyers street and see the largest Buddhist Statue in New York City.  The grand finale is a visit inside the CCBA – The Chinatown Consolidated Benevolent Association where you may catch a glimpse of the Mayor of Chinatown.  

This Official Neighborhood tour is in partnership with the Chinatown Little Italy Historic District Association and was developed in collaboration with the Historic Districts Council.

As Tommy describes it, “Little Italy is the grandmother of all neighborhoods.”

If you love New York City history or just want to take a deep dive into one of Manhattan’s most storied neighborhoods, you shouldn’t miss this guided tour of Little Italy.  You’ll leave with a warm sense of nostalgia, as you walk the very lanes and avenues where so many American dreams were born.

This tour begins at the Chinatown Little Italy Information Kiosk on the corner of Baxter and Canal streets and will encompass the entire northern portion of Historic Little Italy all the way up to Houston Street and back.  Learn about the very first American Catholic Church built specifically for the Italian American community, pay tribute to the haunts of the very first Italian American Police Sargeant Joseph Petrosino.  See the streets where famed film producer/director Martin Scorsese grew up.  Meet the neighborhood as we pay homage to all the Italian owned establishments.  See locations of many famous films and tv shows. Don’t be surprised if your tour is taking place during filming of new productions.

NEW YORK CITY'S OLDEST STREET!

Join us on a journey through over four centuries as we walk down New York City’s oldest street! Originally a Native American footpath and Dutch farm road, site of the first free African American homesteads, and Washington’s triumphal march route during the British evacuation, it was the lower stretch of the Boston Post Road, one of America’s first highways. It witnessed 19th  century gang wars, the bloody Astor Place Riot, and the anti-slavery speech at Cooper Union that propelled Lincoln to the presidency. Though landed gentry like the Delanceys settled here, it soon became the working-class main street for sailors, shopgirls, gangs, gays, sporting men, and waves of immigrant Irish, Italians, Germans, Jewish, and Chinese. NYC’s first entertainment district, it has seminal links to tap dance, vaudeville, Yiddish theater, Houdini, Stephen Foster, Irving Berlin, Mae West, modern tattooing, Abstract Expressionism, Beat literature, improvisational jazz and punk rock. Comparing it to the more upscale Broadway, Walt Whitman found it “more democratic, with a broader, jauntier swing.” Though it declined in the 1900s, when flop houses and dive bars proliferated, it nonetheless became home to affordable jewelry, lighting, and restaurant supply stores, and a live-work home for artists like Marc Rothko, Maya Lin, William Burroughs, Robert Frank, Nan Goldin and Debbie Harry.

GANGS & RIVER PIRATES OF 1800's NYC

Take this immersive journey into the gritty underworld of 19th-century Manhattan. This tour delves into the notorious Five Points neighborhood, and the 1st through 6th Wards, a melting pot of immigrants and the birthplace of America’s most infamous gangs. We will recount tales of gang leaders like Bill the Butcher and Boss Tweed, the corrupt politician. You’ll explore historic landmarks such as the site of the Old Brewery,  and the remnants of the Tombs prison. You’ll also see where the Ancient Order of Hibernians were founded. We will not only unveil the dark history of gang violence and political corruption but also provide a captivating glimpse into the social struggles and resilience of New York’s early inhabitants. A compelling way to experience the city’s turbulent past.

This 90 minutes tour will cover aproximately 2 miles of walking, so bring comfortable shoes.  Check the weather report and dress accordingly.  This tour operates rain or shine unless the weather is severe. Your tour guide might be dressed in 1800’s era clothing so we encourage you to dress up as your favorite early 19th Century  New York City  Gang Member or River Pirate.  There will be plenty of great photo ops during the walk.  We will begin at the very intersection of Orange, Cross and Anthony Streets that once made the Five Points intersection.   Heading southbound we will stop on Hibernian Way, the South Street Seaport and Wall Street.  The tour will end on Stone Street and Coenties Slip where you will have your pick of the many Pubs, Restaurants and Bars.

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New York City Catacombs Tour

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If you're in Manhattan and eager to uncover the secrets beneath the city that never sleeps, don't miss this exclusive tour of the catacombs in NYC . Prepare to be amazed by what you find!

NYC Catacombs: A Bit of History

Constructed between 1809 and 1815, the catacombs in the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral were built to be a prestigious burial site for the cathedral's bishops, clergy, benefactors and trustees. These underground chambers house 35 family crypts and 5 clerical vaults , each designed in various architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic.

Notable individuals interred here include Bishop John Connolly , Congressman John Kelly, the Delmonico family, General Thomas Eckert, and philanthropist Countess Annie Leary. Unique features of the catacombs include original Thomas Edison light fixtures and Rafael Guastavino tilework.

For over 2 centuries, access was restricted to clergy, workers, and family members. However, in February 2017, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral began offering public candlelight tours, revealing the rich history of New York's Catholic heritage.

Tour NYC's Best Kept Secret

If you want to see New York's catacombs for yourself, join us on this candlelight tour. Our journey will begin at the Old Chancery of the Archdiocese , located at 266 Mulberry Street , New York City. After meeting up at the indicated time, we'll make our way to the North Graveyard , the South Graveyard and the courtyard  outside of the basilica.

Then, we'll head into the Basilica and venture into the catacombs of this historic Catholic church to unveil its hidden secrets. Welcome to New York City's fascinating underground world! Inside, we'll explore areas typically off-limits to the public. This behind-the-scenes access allows us to delve into the rich history of the church and its significant role in New York's past.

The undisputed highlight of the tour is of course the chance to explore New York City's unique Catholic catacombs . Inside, we'll connect with history as we visit the final resting places of notable New Yorkers who have shaped American Catholic history.

After an intriguing hour and 20 minutes, we'll conclude our tour in the Undercroft, at the lower rear of the Basilica, leaving you with unforgettable memories of New York's hidden catacombs. Until next time!

More Information

1 hour 20 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Admission to the Catacombs at the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral

When to book?

You can book up until the same day (11:59 pm), subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

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Corporate name: Tommy's New York LLC

Frequently asked questions

Q - Is there anywhere to park nearby?

A - Yes, there are several indoor car parks nearby. Here are a few that are very close to the Basilica: Parking Inc. 298 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012 Soho Parking 258 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012 Mott Parking 284 Mott St, New York, NY 10012

Q - How long is the tour of the catacombs?

A - The tour takes approximately 80-90 minutes.

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

266 Mulberry St

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Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

Explore New York with The New York Pass®

What you'll do.

Dive into the deep history of New York and discover what exists under the streets of the city on the  Catacombs by Candlelight Tour.

Explore The Catacombs by Candlelight with The New York Pass®

• Pay nothing at the door - simply show your pass.
• Enjoy an in-depth 1.5-hour tour under St. Patrick's Old Cathedral. 
• Learn about the city's history from beneath it's streets.

About the Catacombs by Candlelight Tour

Delve beneath St. Patrick’s Basilica into New York's underground passages and explore the historic Catacombs led by atmospheric candlelight.

This 1.5-hour guided tour will take you into the nave of the Basillica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral where you will explore the faithfully departed's final resting place in the historic crypts. You'll get to view New York City's underground tunnels and passageways as you explore the historic Catacombs.

New York City's catacombs are located beneath the historic streets of lower Manhattan, and they provide an interesting experience that appeals to both local residents and tourists. A Catacombs by Candlelight tour is a unique opportunity to explore these hidden spaces while also learning about the city's history.

When you go on a tour of the New York catacombs, you will be guided by an expert who will narrate the history related to it. The passageways are dimly illuminated, and candlelight casts a surreal atmosphere that enhances the sense of intrigue and awe as you descend further into this underground world.

The Catacombs by Candlelight tour provides an exclusive opportunity to explore the secret stories and histories of the city. You'll discover information about the people buried in these subterranean chambers and learn about the events that influenced their development over time. This memorable experience will give you a greater understanding of the deep history beneath New York City's streets.

Visiting the catacombs of New York by candlelight provides a unique historical exploration. The flickering light, grandiose ceilings, and intricate carvings create an atmosphere that can be ideal for intimate events, private tours or a special evening out with friends or loved ones.

The Catacombs by Candlelight tour offers a unique experience that blends history, mystery, and a touch of macabre. Those who traverse the shadowy corridors and uncover secrets of the past will be rewarded with a deeper understanding and appreciation of New York City's hidden history.

The NYC Catacombs offer an engaging journey into a hidden world. History enthusiasts, mystery seekers, and visitors looking for an unforgettable experience can take the Catacombs by Candlelight tour which will likely be a captivating experience.

Catacombs by Candlelight h ighlights

Catacombs The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral serves as a resting ground for some of New York's most noteworthy Catholics. The grounds have been home to important Catholic New Yorkers for over 200 years and is Manhattan's only Catholic cemetery.

Catacombs facts

• The baptism scene in the movie The Godfather was filmed inside St. Patrick's Old Cathedral.  
• The interior of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral was destroyed by a fire in 1866 but after reconstruction was opened once again on St. Patrick's Day of 1868.

Q. What are the Catacombs of New York City? A. The Catacombs of New York City is a vast network of underground passageways and chambers that have been in existence for hundreds of years. The catacombs were previously used as refuge for immigrants fleeing Europe during World War II and grain storage during the Revolutionary War, but today they provide an immersive look at NYC's fascinating history beneath its bustling streets.

Q. Where can I find the Catacombs of New York City? A. The Catacombs of New York City can be found in both Borough Park, Brooklyn and East Harlem, Manhattan.

Q. What kind of experiences are available at the Catacombs? A. Visitors to the Catacombs can take part in interactive tours led by expert guides who will provide insight into the past while exploring rarely seen parts of NYC's underground history by candlelight. Tours also offer glimpses into historic sites such as Colonial taverns and structures still standing from centuries prior!

Q. Are there any special events held in the Catacombs? A. Yes! The Catacombs regularly host unique events such as photography classes, live theatre performances, and Underground Bar Crawls among more unique activities for visitors to enjoy!

Q. Are there any safety precautions I should take when visiting the Catacombs? A. It is recommended that visitors wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for potential low temperatures when visiting the catacombs as well as bring a flashlight or small form of illumination to enhance their exploration experience! Additionally, it is important to heed all instructions given by your tour guide when touring the catacombs for safe navigation through its narrow passages and chambers.

Q. Is there an age restriction when visiting the Catacombs? A. All ages are welcome to visit the Catacombs but children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult at all times due to safety reasons regarding navigating its dark passageways and chambers!

Know before you go

Booking required.

This attraction requires advanced booking.

Getting In:  Show your pass at the ticket kiosk located outside 266 Mulberry Street (between Houston and Prince Street). During inclement weather, the ticket kiosk may move inside the building.

Please Note:  The tour of the Catacombs takes place in the undercroft of the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, which is an active parish. Since the catacombs are active for burial, there may occasionally be a funeral, internment, or someone paying respects. The tour may be adjusted around such events.

For more information visit the Catacombs by Candlelight Tours  website.

Where you'll be

Operating hours.

Friday - Monday Tours are offered throughout the day. The schedule varies. Check the Tommy's New York website for the most up-to-date tour times and to make your reservation.

(212) 300-7683

How it works

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New York Catacombs by Candlelight

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• PLEASE CHECK IN AT 266 MULBERRY STREET (CORNER OF MULBERRY ST. AND JERSEY ST.), WHERE THE TOUR BEGINS. CHECK IN 15 MINUTES BEFORE TOUR PLEASE.
• PLEASE DO NOT GO TO ST. PATRICK'S CATHEDRAL ON FIFTH AVENUE! THIS IS A DIFFERENT ST. PATRICK'S IN MANHATTAN
• Guests requiring wheelchair should contact Tommy's New York in advance to allow us to make proper preparations for your tour

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We Toured New York City's Catacombs By Candlelight, Here's What It Was Like

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America’s coolest small town is in north carolina, why visit the "boulder of oregon", quick links, experiencing the history of new york city's most famous catholic cathedral, the tour of the new york city catacombs, major takeaways from the new york city catacombs tour.

Deep underneath the typically bustling neighborhood of New York City's Northern Little Italy (or NoLita, for those in the know) lies a secret. Not only does NoLita serve as the original home for the Archdiocese of New York, but beneath the surface, there exists an entire system of catacomb tunnels.

The history of this cathedral can be felt from the moment one walks up to its front steps, as easily as when one strolls through its parish cemetery, where some of the earliest Catholic New Yorkers are still buried. For the macabre-inclined, anything from sarcophagi to crypts and (many) unmarked graves can be found here — and that's all before one descends the steps to its candle-lit catacomb tunnels.

We had the chance to tour the catacombs at the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral by candlelight , and this is what it was like.

Book This Tour

For history lovers, there's nothing more thrilling than knowing that the ground you're standing on was once such a significant part of its past. This sense of history is felt all around the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral , and it's one that's worth experiencing in person.

The New York Catacombs by Candlelight tour begins with an introduction of the Basilica itself, which includes a long, winding, and entirely fascinating history that would surprise even a native New Yorker (and it did!).

• What You Should Know: The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral should not be confused with its Midtown counterpart, known simply as St. Patrick's Cathedral . While the two are related, they are not the same.
• Why?: Catholicism first came to New York during the 17th century while it was still known as New Amsterdam. The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral — which did not gain Basilica status by the Vatican until much later — has been open for more than 200 years. When the newer, more well-known St. Patrick's Cathedral was built in Midtown, the original cathedral underwent a name change in addition to earning the title of a 'Basilica' in the process.

These are several out of possibly hundreds of facts one will learn on the tour of this historic cathedral, helping to curate an experience that is educational, engaging, and altogether humbling.

After a brief intro to the Basilica and its current standing in New York, tour participants will move outdoors to begin the walking portion of the tour (the entire tour takes place on the church premises, so there's not too much walking involved).

The parish cemetery is the next stop on the tour, and we were lucky enough to be scheduled with Mike, who was a fantastic guide. With a jovial sense of humor and a knowledge base that was unbelievably extensive, there seemed to be no question that could not be answered, and no stone — no pun intended — was unturned during his talks.

He led us to the cemetery, where we learned as a group that it's home to more than 4,000 people buried — most in unmarked graves — around the church.

Many of the people buried at this parish cemetery were early Catholics who came to New York, including notable legal, political, and noble figures who existed during the 19th century .

Finding where those are buried, however, is a bit more complicated — over the years, some gravestones and markers have been worn down and are unreadable. This also adds to the overall unintentional atmosphere of the tour, which adds a layer of mystique and intrigue.

What is most fascinating — or disturbing, for some — are the unmarked graves which are, quite literally, everywhere... including where one might be standing while taking the tour.

In addition to the mix of century's old burial sites, there are newer crypts, as well as several final resting places for the ashes of modern notable families who have afforded their place within the parish cemetery for eternity.

After about 30 minutes of walking through the parish cemetery, participants will move to the front of the cathedral, where the tour takes an even more historic turn.

As it turns out, the original St. Patrick's had quite a history — and it was one that many people wouldn't be aware of unless they were privy to its origins and the cataclysmic events that occurred in New York City around the time Catholic churches began gaining recognition.

This also meant they were under attack and, while we won't give away too many spoilers, we were particularly floored to learn that at one point in time, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral once had its own musket-guarded walls.

It's hard to picture the upbeat, colorful neighborhood of NoLita as a Protestant vs. Catholic war zone won over by none other than Bishop "Dagger John" John Hughes, but this is only one piece of New York City's unique history that one will learn on this incredible tour.

New York City's Catacombs: The Descent

After stopping by the original stairway that led down into the catacomb tunnels — which is just as creepy as it sounds — participants have roughly 10 minutes or so to spend within the cathedral. For those who have never been inside the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, the first steps inside are a humbling few.

Not many would know that such a breathtaking interior exists behind the tan stone facade that hides the inner chapel.

Beautiful stained-glass windows let through enough light to illuminate the altar and its religious artifacts, known well by anyone who is familiar with the Catholic Church and Pope-led ceremonies. The crowning jewel of the cathedral, however, is the Henry Erben Organ, which was part of a $15 million dollar renovation , found on the upper floor at the back of the cathedral.

From the cathedral, tour participants are led down a set of stairs where the final part of the tour begins.

Related: The Belvedere Hotel: Why Staying Here Is An Iconic NYC Experience

New York City's Catacombs: The Underground Tunnels

Without giving too much away, the catacombs are as fascinating, mind-blowing, and unique as one might imagine.

It's a whole other world that feels entirely detached from New York City, yet completely appropriate for the families who hold final resting places within the hallowed walls of this cathedral. Their stories, inscribed on sealed catacomb doors, vary from the most elite and famous Catholics of the city to tragedies that reveal how difficult life once was during the early 19th century in New York.

One of the most famous catacombs is that of the late General Thomas Eckert and his family. Inside this catacomb, fully-tiled walls, artistically pieced together by none other than engineer and builder Rafael Guastavino (known for his work in Grand Central as well as Ellis Island), along with original Thomas Edison light fixtures. And yes — Eckert did have electricity installed in his catacomb vault!

The New York catacombs were only opened to the public as recently as 2017, and have only garnered attention since then.

As one of the most impressive in the U.S., it's a rare treat to be able to walk the candlelight-lined halls where so much history has been kept for more than 200 years.

The tour of the parish cemetery and time spent within the cathedral are additional perks of the tour , and only help to add authenticity and significance to an already exceptional historic walk into New York City's past.

New York Catacombs By Candlelight Tour Details

• Duration: ~1.5 hours
• Cost: $37/person
• Location: The corner of 266 Mulberry and Jersey in the neighborhood of NoLita

As visitors raise their own candlelight to read each inscribed catacomb marker, it's one more step they take back into a world where New York City was transformed — and it's an experience that's worth having.

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