Basilica of Saint Lawrence Reopens After Restoration
The Asheville landmark welcomes visitors back following a $7.7 million project to stabilize its historic structure.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Home Renovation
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The Basilica of Saint Lawrence in Asheville reopened to visitors on October 10, 2026, following a $7.7 million restoration project. This first phase addressed structural damage caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024.
Why it matters
The restoration prevents further water intrusion that threatened the structural integrity of the 117-year-old historic landmark. Addressing these masonry and moisture issues now is critical to preserving the architectural legacy of the site for the long term.
The completed $7.7 million phase of the 117-year-old basilica focused on core structural repairs. The total project is estimated to cost $30 million as fundraising for future phases continues.
The players
Basilica of Saint Lawrence
A historic Asheville landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Rafael Guastavino Sr.
The architect who designed the basilica using specialized masonry techniques.
The details
Specialists replaced the dome's copper covering, installed new storm drains, repaired cornices, and restored the oculus skylight. Additionally, construction teams stabilized masonry above the Marian Chapel to halt degradation caused by moisture exposure. These measures were essential to repair damage sustained during Hurricane Helene and to secure the historic structure's envelope.
Timeline
1909: The basilica was completed.
September 2024: Hurricane Helene caused structural damage.
October 2025: The restoration project began.
October 10, 2026: The first phase was completed and the site reopened.
November 2, 2026: A revised visitor schedule begins.
The Home Front
Historic buildings like the Basilica of Saint Lawrence face unique maintenance hurdles that often require specialized contractors to satisfy preservation codes. These extensive restoration efforts highlight the significant capital investment needed to maintain aging architectural assets.
If you own a historic property, ensure your roof and exterior drainage systems are inspected annually to prevent the type of moisture damage that impacted the basilica. When planning major exterior repairs, consult with a licensed professional familiar with local preservation codes.
The takeaway
Historic preservation requires consistent maintenance to mitigate moisture risks before they lead to costly structural failure. Property owners should document the condition of their historic features regularly to support potential grant applications or long-term financial planning.
Further reading
Learn more about local preservation efforts in the Home Renovation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
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