St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 🇺🇸

Step into local history at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic parish in Indianapolis and Marion County. Dating back to 1837 and considered the mother parish of the city, this site played a vital role in shaping the local Catholic community and once served as the diocese's pro-cathedral. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church offers you a captivating glimpse into nineteenth-century architectural craftsmanship right at the southwest corner of Georgia Street and Capitol Avenue.

Designed by architect Diedrich A. Bohlen, with twin 194-foot copper spires added later by his son Oscar, the structure displays an eclectic mix of French Gothic Revival and American Romanesque Revival styles. As you approach the red-brick facade, you will spot three stone-faced portals, a rose window, and a fine stone tympanum carved by Joseph Quarmby depicting Saint John pondering the scriptures.

Inside the spacious 3,000-seat sanctuary, you can marvel at majestic Corinthian columns, elegant ribbed vaulting with painted poplar ribs, and an organ gallery positioned above the narthex. Whether you are admiring the ceiling artwork or exploring its deep history, Saint John the Evangelist remains a grand architectural treasure in the heart of downtown Indianapolis.

What to see at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church

• The oldest Catholic parish in Indianapolis and Marion County, originating in 1837.
• Red-brick exterior showcasing French Gothic Revival and American Romanesque Revival architecture.
• Twin 194-foot copper spires dominating the main facade along Capitol Avenue.
• Interior sanctuary featuring Corinthian columns, ribbed vaulting, and seating for 3,000.

Visiting tips

Look above the main center entrance doors to view Joseph Quarmby's life-size stone carving of Saint John the Evangelist pondering the scriptures.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church is easy to reach on Indianapolis’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Indianapolis Zoo and Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Indianapolis travel guide.