The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is a Roman Catholic cathedral at 555 W Temple St in downtown Los Angeles, a short walk from Grand Park and the Music Center. Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo designed its modern, adobe-colored concrete form, completed in 2002. Inside, translucent alabaster panes bring natural light into the cathedral, while large tapestries by John Nava show saints alongside members of the community. The visit also includes a meditation garden, mission-style colonnades and artworks, with a small chapel and gift shop on site.
A modern cathedral in downtown Los Angeles
The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Designed by Spanish architect José Rafael Moneo, it opened in 2002 and replaced the Cathedral of Saint Vibiana, which was damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
Its adobe-colored architectural concrete and geometric form break with the familiar outline of a traditional cathedral. The building rises 11 stories above Temple Street, and its bronze entrance doors were created by Los Angeles sculptor Robert Graham. Above them is a modern image of Our Lady of the Angels.
Light, tapestries and artworks inside
The interior shifts the focus from the building’s monumental exterior to light and detail. Translucent alabaster panes filter daylight into the cathedral, and large tapestries by John Nava line the walls. They depict saints alongside community members, connecting religious imagery with the people of Los Angeles.
Look for artworks and religious objects throughout the building, including statues and paintings. The cathedral’s design combines a sense of scale with a comparatively simple interior, leaving room for prayer and quiet reflection.
The garden and cathedral grounds
Outside, the cathedral grounds include a meditation garden, mission-style colonnades and gardens inspired by biblical themes. The plaza covers 20,000 square feet. A small chapel is also on site, along with a gift shop and cafeteria.
The cathedral is at 555 W Temple St, a short walk from Grand Park and the Music Center. Paid parking is available in an on-site lot and garage. Visitors who want to explore the building and its grounds can set aside time for both the interior and the outdoor spaces.
FAQ
Where is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels?
It is at 555 W Temple St in downtown Los Angeles, a short walk from Grand Park and the Music Center.
When did the cathedral open?
The cathedral was completed and opened in 2002. It replaced the Cathedral of Saint Vibiana after that building was damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
What can you see inside the cathedral?
The interior has translucent alabaster panes, large tapestries by John Nava, and religious artworks including statues and paintings.
Is parking available at the cathedral?
Yes. Paid parking is available in an on-site lot and garage.
