Final Gargoyle Returned to Rehabbed Kentucky Cathedral Modeled After Notre Dame

The two-year, $8 million restoration project included repairs to the limestone exterior and the recreation of 32 gargoyles.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:36pm

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The last of 32 recreated terra cotta gargoyles has been returned to its perch atop the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, Kentucky, as part of a two-year, $8 million restoration project to repair the deteriorated stone, metal, and glass adorning the cathedral's limestone exterior. The 125-year-old church, modeled after the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, offers Midwest residents a taste of European Gothic architecture.

Why it matters

The cathedral's restoration preserves an important piece of architectural history and cultural heritage in the region, providing locals and visitors alike the opportunity to experience a faithful recreation of a renowned European cathedral in the heart of the Midwest.

The details

The restoration project, which was largely funded by donations, included repairs to deteriorated finials, arches, and balustrades, as well as the recreation of 32 terra cotta gargoyles that adorn the cathedral's facade. The final gargoyle was installed on Monday, marking the completion of the heavy lifting for the restoration work.

  • The restoration project began in 2018 after the cathedral's rector, the Very Rev. Ryan Maher, discovered a large piece of stone that had fallen from the exterior.
  • The two-year restoration project was completed in April 2026.

The players

Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption

A 125-year-old cathedral in Covington, Kentucky, that is modeled after the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Very Rev. Ryan Maher

The cathedral's rector, who discovered the need for the restoration project in 2018 after a large piece of stone fell from the exterior.

Brian Walter

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

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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 heavy lifting of the restoration project has been completed.

The takeaway

The restoration of the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption preserves an important piece of architectural and cultural heritage in the Midwest, allowing local residents and visitors to experience a faithful recreation of the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in their own community.