The Cathedral of Learning (the taller building in the background of this photo) is a landmark for downtown Pittsburgh. As part of the University of Pittsburgh, it stands high above the other campus buildings. For all the time I've lived and spent in Pittsburgh, I've never been inside the Cathedral of Learning, which is what Dave and I set out to do one afternoon. 

On our walk to the Cathedral of Learning, though, we first came across Heinz Memorial Chapel, a gift to the University of Pittsburgh by the Heinz family. It was completed in 1938. 

The walls of the Chapel, inside and out, are made of Indiana limestone. 

Intricate stone carvings depict both religious and educational figures, ranging from King David to William Wordsworth, Louis Pasteur, and Isaac Newton. 

These doors are solid oak, and each weighs 800 pounds. 

These 73-foot tall stained glass windows are among the tallest in the world. Along with all the other windows, they were created by Pittsburgh native Charles J. Connick and depict religious, cultural, historical, and literary figures. 

The insignias of some of the world's oldest colleges and universities are carved into shields on the building's exterior. 

After spending some time inside the peaceful chapel, we made our way to the Cathedral of Learning.

Inside the Cathedral of Leaning. Can you imagine going to classes here? 

Inside, along with a plethora of classrooms, is a series of Nationality Rooms, each depicting the culture of a different country. These photos are in the Ukrainian room. 

Because our parking meter was about to expire, we decided to save exploring the other Nationality Rooms for another day; there are enough to fill up an entire afternoon, each with complex and beautiful details. 

Even the ceiling was detailed in the Ukrainian room.