The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is a Catholic cathedral at 38 Cathedral Place in the city’s historic district. The parish traces its beginnings to 1565, and the present church was completed in 1797. Step inside to see stained-glass windows, painted murals, sculptures and a vaulted interior; outside, look for the bell tower and Spanish-influenced facade. Entry is free, so it makes a short, quiet stop between sights around the historic plaza. You can also attend Mass or ask about a guided tour for a closer look at the building’s history.
A parish dating to 1565
The Catholic parish associated with the cathedral began in 1565, the year St. Augustine was founded. Spanish settlers established a place of worship soon after arriving, and the congregation has remained part of the city’s history through centuries of change. The parish’s early buildings did not survive: accounts describe churches on this site being destroyed by fire, including one during an English attack in 1586 and another in 1599.
The current church was built between 1793 and 1797. It is the fourth cathedral on the historic Plaza de la Constitución site, following three earlier buildings lost to fire. The parish is the oldest Catholic parish in the United States, and the cathedral is the seat of the Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine. Its long history is closely tied to the growth of the city and its Catholic community.
The facade and interior
The exterior combines Spanish Mission and Neoclassical influences. Look for the bell features, clay roof tiles and the statue of St. Augustine of Hippo on the church’s exterior. The design changes character as you enter: the interior has a vaulted ceiling, large stained-glass windows, murals and sculptures.
The altar brings another style into the building. It was designed in the Italian Renaissance style by Renwick and sculpted from Carrara marble by J. Massey Rhind. The combination of architectural and decorative elements reflects the building’s long development, including restoration after a fire in 1887 and later work in the mid-1960s.
Planning a visit
The cathedral is an active place of worship, as well as a historic landmark. Visitors can enter to look around, spend a quiet moment in prayer or attend Mass. If you plan to visit during a service, give worshippers space and keep noise to a minimum. Information about Mass times is available through the cathedral’s website.
Admission is free. Guided tours can add historical context and may include areas not accessible on a regular visit; check current tour arrangements before you go. The church is close to other historic sites around the plaza, making it easy to include on a walk through the district. Nearby parking is available, but finding a space close to the cathedral can be challenging, so allow time to park and walk.
FAQ
Is there an admission fee?
No. Entry to the cathedral is free.
How old is the parish?
The parish traces its beginnings to 1565, the year St. Augustine was founded. The current church was completed in 1797.
Can visitors take a guided tour?
Guided tours are available and can include areas not open to regular visitors. Check with the cathedral for current arrangements.
What should I see inside?
Look for the stained-glass windows, painted murals, sculptures, vaulted interior and altar.
