Photo from DCMemorials.com

A tour of the 112 gargoyles and grotesques that grace the National Cathedral kicks off again this Saturday, the first such tours since last August’s earthquake damaged and closed off part of the iconic cathedral to visitors.

The cathedral opened its central tower to visitors for the first time since the earthquake in late March. Estimates for repairs on the cathedral have approached $20 million; as of February, only $2 million had been raised towards that amount. Sadly, no philanthropist has stepped up to help the cathedral as has been the case with the Washington Monument.

The first tour is this Sunday at 2 p.m. and costs $10 per adult and $5 per child. Tours will take place on Thursdays and Sundays through October.