Welcome to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro or the New Cathedral. Located right in the center of the city, this remarkable seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro offers you a truly unique architectural experience. Dedicated to Saint Sebastian, the patron saint of Rio de Janeiro, the cathedral houses the cathedra of the city's Archbishops.
Designed by Edgar de Oliveira da Fonseca and built between 1964 and 1979, the building showcases a strikingly modern style inspired by the ancient Mayan architectural style of pyramids. Unlike traditional historic churches, this conical landmark replaces earlier cathedrals, including the 18th-century Old Cathedral. As you step inside its massive 8,000-square-meter interior, you will be awed by its soaring scale.
The cathedral boasts an internal diameter of 96 meters, stands 75 meters tall, and accommodates up to 5,000 seated visitors or a total standing capacity of 20,000 people. The true visual centerpiece of your visit will be the four vibrant, rectilinear stained glass windows. These stunning glass installations soar an impressive 64 meters from the floor all the way up to the ceiling, creating an unforgettable atmosphere inside this modern space.
What to see at Rio de Janeiro Cathedral
- Modern architectural style inspired by Mayan pyramids
- Four towering rectilinear stained glass windows soaring 64 meters high
- Massive 8,000-square-meter interior with capacity for 20,000 people
- Historic seat of the Archdiocese dedicated to Rio's patron saint
Visiting tips
Be sure to head inside the city center landmark to look straight up at the four floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows stretching 64 meters high.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Rio de Janeiro Cathedral is easy to reach on Rio de Janeiro’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Rio de Janeiro travel guide.
See the full Rio de Janeiro travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.