St. Josaphat Cathedral 🇨🇦

Located in the McCauley neighborhood of Edmonton, Alberta, St. Josaphat Cathedral stands as one of the finest examples of Byzantine Rite church architecture in Canada. As you approach this grand site, which occupies 18 city lots, you will instantly notice its striking exterior featuring seven domes, a columned entry portico, and red brick veneer detailed with darker brick pilasters and inlaid cream-colored crosses.

Designed in 1938 by the Reverend Philip Ruh, the cathedral blends Ukrainian Baroque elements with Western European influences, creating a uniquely Canadian style known as the "Prairie Cathedral." Though height restrictions from the nearby Edmonton City Centre Airport kept it slightly shorter than originally intended, it remains celebrated as the most elaborate Ukrainian church in Alberta. Inside, your eyes will be drawn to the rich artistic details added over the decades. You can admire intricate interior murals, frescoes, and icons painted beginning in 1951 under the leadership of well-known muralist Professor Julian Bucmaniuk, as well as an impressive iconostasis constructed in 1968.

Recognized as both a Provincial and Municipal Historic Resource, this active seat of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Edmonton offers you an incredible glimpse into Canada’s rich Ukrainian-Canadian architectural and cultural heritage.

What to see at St. Josaphat Cathedral

• Distinctive exterior featuring seven domes and a columned entry portico
• Unique Prairie Cathedral architecture blending Ukrainian Baroque and Western influences
• Intricate interior murals, frescoes, and icons by muralist Professor Julian Bucmaniuk
• Detailed iconostasis built inside the cathedral in 1968
• Designation as both a Provincial and Municipal Historic Resource

Visiting tips

Be sure to examine the exterior brickwork closely to spot the darker brick pilasters and cream-colored cross inlays set against the red brick veneer.

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

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Josaphat Cathedral is easy to reach on Edmonton’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Al-Rashid Mosque and Art Gallery of Alberta. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Edmonton travel guide.