Final Gargoyle Returned to Covington Cathedral Modeled After Notre Dame

Two-year restoration project at Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption nears completion

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:09am

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The last stone gargoyle has been returned to its perch atop the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, Kentucky, marking the near completion of a two-year, $8 million restoration project on the 125-year-old cathedral modeled after the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Why it matters

The Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, often referred to as 'America's Notre Dame,' is a beloved landmark in the Covington community and an important piece of the region's architectural heritage. The extensive restoration work has helped preserve the cathedral's unique gothic design and prevent further deterioration of its stone, metal, and glass features.

The details

The restoration project included the recreation of 32 gargoyles, as well as repairs to deteriorated finials, arches, and balustrades on the limestone exterior. Workers used a cherry picker to carefully install the final gargoyle on the cathedral's facade on March 30, 2026.

  • The restoration project began in 2024 and is nearing completion in 2026.
  • The final gargoyle was installed on March 30, 2026.

The players

Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption

A 125-year-old cathedral in Covington, Kentucky, that is modeled after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and is considered an architectural landmark in the region.

Very Rev. Ryan Maher

The cathedral's rector, who oversaw the restoration project after discovering a large piece of stone that had fallen from the exterior in 2018.

Brian Walter

The CEO of Trisco Systems, the contractor that carried out the restoration work on the cathedral.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's very special and very unique.”

— Very Rev. Ryan Maher, Cathedral Rector

“That's a big, monumental occasion for not only people here, but for us. That kind of symbolized the last stone we're putting in.”

— Brian Walter, CEO, Trisco Systems

What’s next

The cathedral will continue with smaller tasks around the facade, including the installation of chimeras that sit on the roofline, but the major restoration work has been completed.

The takeaway

The restoration of the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, a beloved landmark modeled after the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, has helped preserve an important piece of Covington's architectural heritage and cultural identity. The project's successful completion is a testament to the community's commitment to honoring its history and investing in the preservation of its most iconic structures.