9 Of The Most Enchanting Man Made Wonders in Cleveland
By Nikki Rhoades|Published July 13, 2017
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
One of the coolest things about Northeast Ohio is that the region celebrates culture through art. Historic districts, statues, and landscaped wonders are just a few of the gems one might find around Cleveland. Countless spectacular structures can be seen across the region, all of which were shaped lovingly by human hands. You won’t believe the wonderful things that make our area unique:
1. Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, 1007 Superior Avenue, Cleveland
This spectacular church was completed in 1852, humbling visitors with its grand ornamental Gothic architecture. In 1884, the interior was further enhanced with lovely stained glass windows and walnut accents.
2. Erie Street Cemetery, 2254 East 9th Street, Cleveland
Cleveland's oldest cemetery is marked by a Gothic gate. Its landscaped interior houses some of Cleveland's notable residents, including the very first mayor, John Willey. It was established in 1826 at the edge of the city, but today it stands across the street from Progressive Field.
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3. The Cleveland Trust Rotunda, Euclid Avenue and East 9th Street, Cleveland
In 1907, a stunning building that blends Renaissance Revival and Neoclassical architecture was completed in the former Financial District of Cleveland. When it was completed, it was the third-largest bank building in the country. the rotunda dome (pictured) has 13 segments and a magical Tiffany-style lead glass dome.
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4. The Guardians of Traffic, Hope Memorial Bridge, Cleveland
The Hope Memorial Bridge connects Lorain Avenue and Carnegie Avenue, traversing nearly 6,000 feet. Its behemoth watchmen, The Guardians of Traffic, are a nod to the progress in the transportation industry that was made in Cleveland.
Downtown's Playhouse Square is one of the most grandiose theater districts in the country. The Ohio Theatre is perhaps one of the most striking venues. Built in 1921 in the Italian Renaissance style, it was almost wiped from existence twice when developers wished to raze it. A fire in the 1960's damaged its interior, and it was not restored to its original glory until 2016.
6. James A. Garfield Monument, 12316 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland
Lake View Cemetery is one of Cleveland's most spectacular architectural works. The Garfield Memorial houses the remains of the late president and his immediate family. This stunning castle-like edifice was dedicated on 1890, nine years after the president was assassinated.
7. Wade Memorial Chapel, 12316 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland
Another wonder hidden within Lake View Cemetery is a small chapel with a grand historical significance. Built in 1901, its interior was decorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Its spectacular mosaics portray both the River of Life and the River of Death. In this image, the pictured figures represent the seven Pillars of Wisdom and the seven Old Testament Prophets.
This concert hall was opened in University Circle in 1931. Its Art Deco architecture features an abundance of lotus flowers, one of the favorite stylized architectural features of philanthropist Elisabeth Dewitt Severance, whom the hall is named after.
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9. The Fire Memorial, 362 Erieside Avenue, Cleveland
In 2007, this bright fiberglass monument was unveiled to honor 77 men and women who paid the ultimate price. Recently, it has been noted that the decade-old statue appears to have some structural issues. The Cleveland Fire Fighters Memorial Fund is currently fundraising to fix this Downtown Cleveland fixture.
Northeast Ohio is full of man-made wonders, but Cleveland truly is its gem. The city glitters with amazing works of art, and no matter how many times you may encounter them, they never cease to amaze. For another beautiful destination, check out this iconic church from the 1820s.
