Northwestern’s sacred symbolism in architecture

The University of Northwestern campus is ranked as one of the most beautiful in the country and a great deal of the aesthetic is defined by the architecture of its buildings. But what most visitors might miss is the sacred symbolism that architects incorporated around campus.

Dr. Mark Baden, professor emeritus of art at Northwestern, guides us through a few of these points of interest built into Nazareth Hall.

“The Lombard Romanesque style, with its dominating tower, is a beautiful example of sacred space here in the Twin Cities” Baden shares. “The main entrance really is an invitation to come into the presence of Christ, to be schooled under His authority, and to take on His burden for His yoke is easy and His burden is light.”