At 1400 Washington St in Boston’s South End, the Cathedral of the Holy Cross is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston and one of New England’s largest Catholic churches. It opened in 1875, and its spacious interior has stained-glass windows, Stations of the Cross and a chapel. Look for the chair used by Pope John Paul II during his 1979 visit. You can also attend Mass, including services in Spanish, or take time for quiet prayer.
A cathedral opened in 1875
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross is the principal church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston. It was built after the city’s Catholic community outgrew an earlier Holy Cross church, which had been built in 1803. The cathedral opened in 1875.
Its scale reflects its place in the archdiocese: it is one of the largest Catholic churches in New England. The building was designed by architect Patrick Keely.
Details inside
The interior gives visitors room to pause and look closely at the stained-glass windows and the Stations of the Cross. A chapel is also inside the cathedral. The Hook and Hastings organ was added in 1875.
Pope John Paul II visited the cathedral in 1979 during his first visit to the United States. He held a prayer service there for priests, and the chair associated with that visit is displayed inside.
Visiting for worship
The cathedral remains a place of worship as well as a landmark. Visitors can attend Mass, including Spanish-language services, or spend time in prayer. Check the cathedral’s website for current service and event details before planning your visit.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross?
It is at 1400 Washington St in Boston, Massachusetts.
When did the cathedral open?
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross opened in 1875.
What can you see inside the cathedral?
The interior includes stained-glass windows, Stations of the Cross, a chapel and the chair associated with Pope John Paul II’s 1979 visit.
Can you attend Mass at the cathedral?
Yes. Mass is held at the cathedral, including services in Spanish. Check its website for current service details.
