Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:35 Treasury Street
St. Augustine, Florida
Tel:
(904) 824-2806
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is a mecca for the spiritually or architecturally inclined traveler. The Spanish Colonial and Renaissance Revival structure was built in 1793, but the actual parish church dates back to the founding of St. Augustine, Florida in 1565. It became the new diocese of St. Augustine in 1870 and a basilica in 1976.
Located in America's oldest city, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine has lived through nearly 400 years of rich history, starting with the arrival of Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles in 1565, to the founding of the Mission Nombre de Dios where the first Mass of the new settlement was held, to the Spanish Franciscans attempt to evangelize the Native Americans, to various city pillages and burnings, rebuilding, revivals, and celebrations, all that mark the life and vibrancy of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.
You can't miss the Cathedral Basilica in the downtown historic district of St. Augustine. Well before you see the cathedral, you'll see the magnificent bell tower looming over the Plaza de la Constitution. As you approach, you'll see the 18th century Renaissance structure in all its glory, with a 16th century Spanish flair. The stained glass windows are beautiful and worth your attention. There are tours available and a gift shop, and of course guests are welcome to stay for Mass, every morning at 7:00am (Saturdays at 8:00am), with additional services on Sundays at 9:00am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. A Saturday Vigil is held at 5:00pm.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is a place of spiritual calm and beauty, where people from all faiths are welcome to practice, meditate, and take delight in the beauty of our nation's first parish.