Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The Majesty of the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

With nearly 42 million glass tesserae pieces adorning its interior walls, the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis enjoys worldwide recognition for its magnificent mosaics collection. This collection not only depicts scenes from the Bible but also showcases the Catholic heritage of St. Louis. Started in 1907, this Roman Catholic cathedral exemplifies a unique blend of the Byzantine Revival and Romanesque Revival architectural styles.

Visitor Impressions and Highlights

The cathedral's expansive mosaics collection has earned it rave reviews from travelers, even those who aren't religious. Many visitors have expressed admiration for the cathedral's architecture and its stunning interior, often comparing it to the grand churches found in Europe. Several recent visitors have highlighted their stop at the cathedral as a memorable part of their trip to St. Louis.

Location and Accessibility

Getting There

Located in the Central West End neighborhood, just east of Forest Park, and about 4 miles west of downtown St. Louis, the Cathedral Basilica is easily accessible. For visitors without a car, the Central West End MetroLink station is less than a mile away.

Visiting Hours and Tours

The cathedral is open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and visitors can explore on their own during these hours. Additionally, guided tours are available most Sundays after the noon Mass. Note that weddings and other events are frequent on weekends, in addition to regular Mass services.

Mosaic Museum and Amenities

On the cathedral's lower level, visitors will find the Mosaic Museum, open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Entry to the museum requires a $2 donation per person. Visitors can also enjoy a gift shop and take advantage of on-site parking facilities.

For more information, including upcoming events and additional details about the cathedral, visit their official website.