When you explore the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, you will find The Presbytère standing proudly on the northeast side of Jackson Square, right between St. Louis Cathedral and St. Ann Street.
Designed in 1791 by French-born Gilberto Guillemard to match the Cabildo, this striking two-story brick building stands as one of the nation's best examples of formal colonial Spanish architecture featuring neo-Renaissance elements. Construction began in the late 18th century, with the second floor completed in 1813 and a dormered mansard roof topped by a louvered cupola added in 1847. Though originally named Casa Curial and intended to house clergy on the former site of the Capuchin friars' rectory, it was never used as a religious residence.
Instead, you are looking at a landmark that served commercial purposes until 1834, housed the Louisiana Supreme Court, and eventually joined the Louisiana State Museum in 1911. As you admire its exterior, you can observe a nine-bay open arcade of elliptical arches, pilastered corners, multipane windows, engaged columns, and a gabled pediment. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970, this historic museum property offers you an unforgettable glimpse into Spanish colonial design and rich Louisiana state heritage.
What to see at The Presbytere
- One of the nation's finest examples of formal colonial Spanish architecture with neo-Renaissance details.
- Distinctive nine-bay open arcade of elliptical arches and a dormered mansard roof with a louvered cupola.
- Historic 1813 structure designed by Gilberto Guillemard to match the neighboring Cabildo.
- Former site of the Louisiana Supreme Court and now a key property of the Louisiana State Museum.
Visiting tips
Be sure to look up at the louvered cupola, which was restored to the roof in 2005 after being missing since the 1915 hurricane.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
The Presbytere is easy to reach on New Orleans’s public transport, and pairs naturally with St. Louis Cathedral and New Orleans Museum of Art. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our New Orleans travel guide.
See the full New Orleans travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.