This beautiful building is a must-see. Both inside and out is stunning. Rich history, elaborate ceiling details, & gorgeous stained glass, & right in Jackson Square. Self-guided tours are available 9am-4pm, excluding mass - so be mindful/respectful of that. Benches out front provide seating to rest & take in the view It sits beside the Cabildo as well, also a historical landmark, with many iconic restaurants nearby. read more

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The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France is the oldest Catholic cathedral in continual use in the United States. Every time morning, afternoon or evening I pass by when I'm in Nola I take a picture. I have many pictures each different depending upon the angle and time. This years pic was a simple composition shot with symmetry which I like. The structure, the setting in Jackson Squire and the design inside and out make this one of the most beautiful cathedrals. #stlouiscathedralneworleans #neworleans #nola #jacksonsquare read more

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This is one of the best examples of French architecture in the US. This18th century cathedral is dedicated to Louis IX, the French king sainted in 1297. This cathedral, pre-dates, running water, there aren't bathrooms. read more

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Incredible, beautiful, amazing, breathtaking, awe-inspiring church! Too many adjectives to describe how great this church is. As a Catholic person, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Even has a small, quaint, stocked gift shop. read more

Such an amazing holy place to visit It is breathtaking and to walk around knowing how old it is and the history behind it - plus be able to attend a service there Amazing is not a good enough word read more

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Loved all the stained glass. It's a beautiful structure and was not particularly busy when we stopped in to look around.

A very catholic place in the most populous city in old French Louisiana. The St. Louis Cathedral (technically the Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis King of France) that heads Jackson Square and the neighboring French Market is a still-operating relic of days past ... one started in 1718 ... and still a full-fledged parish. Open for tours of the Cathedral and the adjacent Ursuline Convent Museum, daily Mass is still celebrated. The Cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. Beautiful interior appointments throughout, a visit here can bring all sorts of blessings. read more

St Louis Cathedral - Interior view ... - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

This cathedral is so beautiful. When you step into the cathedral hall, you get a moment of serenity away from all the hustle and bustle by Jackson Square. The painted ceilings, stained glass, and sculptures are all amazing works of art. There is an atmosphere of reverence and holiness in the cathedral befitting of its history. I definitely recommend visiting, but remember to be silent and respectful. read more

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This time I took my son and the experience was much better. I knew what to expect and took my hat off before I went inside. I was taking pictures when a friendly volunteer told me about the stained glass . They go in order about the patron saint of the church's life. I'm not Catholic but I still appreciated the knowledge. I donated a few dollars and lit a candle. I just wanted to support the church . If I go again I'll do the same. read more

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What a beauty. We stopped in on a Saturday morning just after 9AM and were just blown away by both the outside and the inside. I loved the old pews so worn, but welcoming to all. Take the time to look around, reflect and if it moves you pray. I took a stroll around and donated to light some candles and pray in front of the statue of the Blessed Mother. If your not into faith at least stop here to see this iconic landmark of New Orleans. Beautiful architecture and so much history not only inside the building, but around it. My wife and I took some beautiful night shots in front of the Cathedral. Very peaceful. Don't forget to donate a few dollars and at the very least stop in for a break from the heat! read more

While I didn't take a tour, the church is open to the public so anyone can go in without having to pay or do a tour. It's absolutely stunning inside! So peaceful, calming, and relaxing. I love the holy water stand and the candle stand inside. It's very clean and well respected. You don't have to be religious or Catholic to go in and feel the peace it exudes. Would recommend everyone go at least one, especially since it's the first Cathedral in the United States. read more

St Louis Cathedral - Inside the Cathedral - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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It's been over 10 years since I entered this Cathedral (and wrote a review). This Basilica continues to dominate Jackson Square-area sky line and offers a welcome respite inside, whether one is Catholic or not. An old friend I used to work with in Baton Rouge once explained to me that generally speaking, Protestants dominated north of I-10, while Catholics did so South. I think that's a reflection of the French, Spanish, and other Catholic countries that first settled and thrived in this area of Louisiana. And judging by the "We Need Priests" sign I witnessed inside the sanctuary, keeping a faith vibrant is always an ongoing challenge. read more

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Beautiful Cathedral. We ran out on time to go inside for a tour. After dark we went to the back and saw the Jesus statue. On the wall of the Cathedral you can see the shadow of the of the statue and you could see Touch Down Jesus. It's Jesus making the sign of a touchdown during the football game near the goal posts. read more

St Louis Cathedral - Though down Jesus can be found in the back of the church. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

St Louis Cathedral is definitely a staple in the landmarks of NOLA. I have seen it multiple times during the day yet coming out for the superbowl light show was memorable. The light show happened every 30 minutes on the hour in the evening this week & we wanted to be sure to catch it on one of the last nights it was offered. Upon arriving, it was nice to see the community come together and hang out while watching the show. Around read more

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Beautiful old church in New Orleans by Jackson Square Check out the art and ornamentation. read more

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Beautiful cathedral in Jackson square that was open to the public. We went in for a quick moment and sat so we wouldn't disturb anyone that was worshiping. We are not Catholic but really enjoy how lovely their cathedrals are. so beautiful and peaceful and history, outside surrounded by art and street performances and a park. . read more

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This cathedral is magical. Between the alter area, the stained glass windows, and the amazing detail of the ceiling it was such a sight to behold. read more

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Visiting this cathedral felt special, knowing it's the first cathedral in the United States. I love experiencing different religious spaces from various backgrounds and cultures, and this one holds so much history. It's right in the heart of Jackson Square, which is a must-see in New Orleans, and has the smallest, cutest gift shop. Inside, there are areas where you can make offerings and say prayers, and even when there wasn't a service, beautiful music played throughout the space, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Definitely worth a visit, whether for the history, the architecture, or just a quiet moment in the middle of the city. read more

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Beautiful Cathedral-Basilica. There are no drinking water fountains or restrooms. This is the most beautiful church that I've ever been to and I've been to many churches. The original church was burnt down and then the Spanish reconstructed it. There is a lot of peace and tranquility in this church despite the madness of the French Quarter. read more

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ran inside to escape an insane homeless man who had his hands inside his pants screaming at people. the church is beautiful. the art work on the windows and ceiling are insane! the church itself is breath taking and it's even better on the inside. read more

St Louis Cathedral - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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One of the most beautiful historic landmarks in America is the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square. Most people don't realize that the most beautiful part of the St. Louis Cathedral is the rear view & gardens behind the church. Gorgeous garden area. Also, one of the most amazing things you can ever do for Christmas Eve, is attend mass in Jackson Square when it's all decorated up for Christmas, it's so festive. Magical. Check the calendar for events. https://www.stlouiscathedral.org/calendar Bucket List worthy. read more

St Louis Cathedral - "St. Louis Cathedral" Hauntingly beautiful at night in Jackson Square. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

10/10. Beautiful experience, make an offering for 2$, or view for free on Sunday mornings. read more

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Beautiful cathedral in the French Quarter of New Orleans. We went to Sunday mass last month and it was really nice. The exterior reminds me of some of the churches I saw in Italy last year. It's old and one of the oldest in the country I believe. It's adjacent to Jackson Square and it was packed on the morning we went so get there early to get a seat in the pew. read more

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Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the St. Louis Cathedral (#1) is one of the most architecturally stunning and historically significant buildings in all of the United States. It is the country's oldest cathedral (#2) in continuous use and dedicated to King Louis IX of France. Regardless of how one feels about religion, this is a cool and free place to visit when in the Big Easy. This cathedral was first built in the early 1700s, long before the United States was ever a country. Like any long standing building of importance, it has a tumultuous history that includes being burned down in the late 18th century, surviving a bomb in the early 20th century, to being recently submerged and nearly blown apart from Hurricane Katrina. For folks who are in Jackson Square, there's no avoiding it. It is the centerpiece for every photoshoot in the hood and still has active masses to this day. I recommend that everyone takes the opportunity to look inside and marvel at the interior of the place. Self-guided tours are available and flash photography is discouraged, especially during times when the place is hosting a wedding or a funeral. To my knowledge it's not open at night to the public. All visits with the exception of Sunday should be before 4pm. For architecture enthusiasts and/or history buffs, enjoy the Renaissance / Spanish colonial architecture. This is truly a relic that should be seen, documented, and preserved. ____________ (#1) Or known by the much longer name: Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Lous, King of France. (#2) Even older than St. Patrick's in NYC. Incredible. read more

Truly, this is the heart of old New Orleans. The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France is the oldest Catholic cathedral in continual use in the United States. St. Louis Cathedral is one of New Orleans' most notable landmarks. The city is instantly recognized by the cathedral and its position overlooking Jackson Square. This is the cathedral that was also shown in Princess Tiana movie read more

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The St. Louis Cathedral overlooks Jackson Square and just has stunning architecture. It's in the French Quarter and is located in what is considered the heart of the "old New Orleans". It's situated between the Louisiana State Museums Cabildo and the Presbytère, two museums that detail Louisiana history and contain artifacts, documents, and paintings. If you're fortunate you can get an impromptu tour from a volunteer docent and learn more about the history of the cathedral. I overheard a docent telling a group that a free man of color laid the bricks on the ground we were standing on in 1850. There are also 12 people who are buried under the cathedral. It's a great place to take pictures, both of the church and inside of the church. read more

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Just an iconic building. My fav views are always at night. You can feel the magic and mystery of the city here. read more

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Simply Beautiful. Tarry a while to reflect on life, take in a service, rest your weary feet and especially to hear a concert. We had a lovely Bach evening once, free and you can come and go as you please. It is dedicated to Saint Louis, also known as King Louis IX of France. The first church on the site was built in 1718; the third, under the Spanish rule, built in 1789, was raised to cathedral rank in 1793. The second St. Louis Cathedral was burned during the great fire of 1788 and was expanded and largely rebuilt and completed in the 1850s, with little of the 1789 structure remaining read more

Absolutely beautiful Christmas morning mass. Choir and orchestra professional and the acoustics amazing.

This Cathedral is located in Jackson square. It has appeared in lots of movies and several shows. It is a grand character. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis King of France is the oldest Catholic cathedral in continuous use in the whole United States!! They have weddings here. The have Sunday masses here. This place is just amazing. read more

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Beautiful cathedral. The alter is stunning with a golden color. The painting above it is very detailed. With a donation you can light candles. read more

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St. Louis Cathedral is located in the heart of the French Quarter. Its Gothic architecture is amazing. The cathedral is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the U.S., and legend has it that the grounds are haunted by spirits from its centuries-old history. read more

Every time I visit NOLA I have to stop in the Cathedral. It's located right on Jackson Square and it's extremely beautiful inside and out. The history is worth a Google and it's always open to visitors. If you step across the plaza into the park, you'll get an amazing view of the Cathedral. And if you step inside the Cathedral, you can take a moment of quietness to just "be." Say a prayer or positive intention.....rest your feet from walking around and enjoy a moment of respite from the noise of the square (tourists, vendors). read more

St Louis Cathedral - Cathedral - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

I came here for Sunday mass and it was AMAZING This is the oldest active cathedral in the US Being inside this cathedral is awesome The history, the architecture, the decor are breathtaking My eyes couldn't stay still I lit some candles ($2 per candle) When mass is not in service you can still come inside and take a tour Jackson square is located in front of the church You read more

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This Catholic Cathedral is a stunning example of the architecture you often see with Cathedrals across the globe. Old & historic located in the heart of the French Quarter. The perfect setting to reflect and get away from the craziness of the French Quarter. It was lovely to sit quietly for a while and sit at peace. Loved it here. read more

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This Cathedral is amazing. They not only hold mass here, they open its doors to visitors throughout the day. Visitors can visit confession (Being located off of Bourbon Street, I sure it is a full time job), take communion, light a prayer candle, sit in the pews and pray, visit the alter and/or just marvel at the architecture. This is an active Cathedral and serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans. They host weddings and concerts here as well. This church is synonymous with New Orleans and shows up in a lot of the city's advertisements. It is located behind Jackson Square and just a few blocks from the world famous Bourbon Street. The Cathedral has a small gift shop that operates on limited hours and they request a donation if you light a prayer candle. The current Cathedral was built in 1850. There was another built on the site in 1789, but it burned down and was rebuilt. The Cathedral gets its name from King Louis IX of France. Even after being rebuilt, it is still the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the country. The interior and exterior are amazing. I have seen many rude visitors forget that it is an active church, being loud and obnoxious. The Cathedral is said to be haunted by Father Antonio de Sedella, who is buried in the church and Friar Père Dagobert, a friar who was a long time resident in church. There is a paid parking lot across the street and metered street parking nearby. During your visit here, I highly recommend making it part of a larger itinerary and you could include stuff like Jackson Square, Woldeburg Park, Cafe Du Mond, The Louisiana Museum or one of the many nearby restaurants. This is a must see if you are in the city. It is very picturesque. You can get some awesome pictures of the Cathedral from Washington Artillery Park right across the street. There is also a ton of attractions concentrated in that area, so you can make a day of it. And if you go in, I just remind you that it is an active church that are allowing visitors in, so please be respectful. Final Note: You should come back to the Cathedral at dark at look around the back. They project the shadow of the Virgin Mary, with her arms raised, onto the back of the building. It is definitely something to see. read more

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Beautiful cathedral with a rich history. We attended Easter Mass and loved being a part of the service. It was a great way to spend the morning. read more

Sunday mo rning, 10 weeks ago, R and I walked from the Hyatt Regency (near the Superdome) to Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France (at Jackson Square) to attend the 9 am mass. Nothing like being all dressed up for church and working up a sweat when it was 88 degrees at 79% humidity! As we got closer to the church, we heard the church bell ringing, announcing that mass would be starting soon. The bell is so loud that it could be heard throughout the French Quarter and beyond. My back was drenched with sweat when we finally arrived at the cathedral-basilica. I was so glad that the air conditioning was working well. It was nice attending mass in this beautiful cathedral-basilica, and it was at about at one-third capacity, but I have a feeling that most of the mass attendees are from out of town. The priests started on time and kept the mass moving forward, completing mass in under an hour. This was my second time visiting this cathedral-basilica, and my first time attending mass here. The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France is the oldest Catholic cathedral in continual use in the United States. It has many detailed and gorgeous murals painted on the walls and ceiling, statues depicting the rich history of New Orleans and the Catholic Church, and has an ornate lecturn and an even more ornate shell behind the lecture. Both the lecture and shell look like they're made of teak wood (I believe). Although the celebration of masses are for Catholic parishioners, visitors are invited to attend and participate in mass except for Communion. Whenever the church doors are open and mass is not being celebrated, visitors are welcomed to walk through the church and take pictures. Beautiful (inside and outside) and historical, Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France is certainly a church that I recommend everyone visit. read more

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When you walk in you'll be amazed of how beautiful and intricate this cathedral is. Just make sure when you go in you have respect and be quiet since there are people in prayer. The harmonious choir and the decorum statues of saints and depictions of the apostles are heavenly. Also when you enter to the right is a confession area and also you will see the church"s history as it was built in 1869 in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. It's definitely hard to put into words how beautiful and intricate everything is inside. You would definitely have to see and explore yourself. Also there is a candle lighting if you have any prayer intentions which is very beautiful spiritually. Again this place of course is easy to access but just remember to have respect in entering. read more

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Love this church I go to mass sometimes there is a must see! The facade is also very beautiful! read more

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