St. Louis Cathedral 🇺🇸

Located in the heart of New Orleans inside the French Quarter, the Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France—known simply as St. Louis Cathedral—is a historic Catholic cathedral and minor basilica facing Jackson Square and the Mississippi River. Set along Place John Paul II between the Cabildo and the Presbytère, it is dedicated to King Louis IX of France and stands as the seat of the Archdiocese of New Orleans.

Alongside Monterey's Royal Presidio Chapel, it is one of the oldest cathedrals in continuous use in the United States. When you visit, you will behold a landmark whose present structure dates primarily to 1850, built upon a site that has hosted three Catholic churches since the city's founding in 1718. During your visit, you can appreciate its rich history, including its 1819 bell named "Victoire" that commemorates the Battle of New Orleans, its historic rebuilds, and its surviving architecture that endured a 1909 dynamite bombing, structural collapses, and roof damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Take time to step outside to St. Anthony's Garden behind the building to see the ornamental gate and the marble statue of Jesus Christ.

What to see at St. Louis Cathedral

• Seat of the Archdiocese of New Orleans and minor basilica designated by Pope Paul VI
• Situated on Place John Paul II next to Jackson Square, the Cabildo, and the Presbytère
• Houses the 1819 bell "Victoire," commemorating the 1815 Battle of New Orleans
• Surrounded by St. Anthony's Garden featuring an ornamental gate and marble Jesus statue

Visiting tips

Be sure to look behind the cathedral at St. Anthony's Garden to spot the historic marble statue of Jesus Christ, which lost a forefinger and thumb during Hurricane Katrina.

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

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Louis Cathedral is easy to reach on New Orleans’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our New Orleans travel guide.