The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is built on the highest peak in Newark next to Branch Brook Park. The French Gothic Cathedral covers 45,000 square feet, an area equal to that of London’s Westminster Abbey, and is longer and taller than St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Built over a 55-year period, beginning at the turn of the century, the land was purchased in 1871 for $60,000. The cost, initially estimated at $1 million, soon rose to $18 million. Most of the money was raised through large donations and church collections throughout the Archdiocese. The edifice was dedicated on October 19, 1954. The title of "Sacred Heart" honors Jesus Christ's love for humanity. He made the human face of God's love present in Galilee. The same love reached out to us here and now. We invite you to allow the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart to lead you in prayer and to deepen your own faith, hope, and love.