Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Charleston

4.8

#8 of 37 in Historic Sites in Charleston

Religious Site · Hidden Gem · Architectural Building

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A showcase of neo-Gothic architecture from the antebellum and Civil War periods, Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist also serves as the city's primary Catholic church. Originally constructed in 1854 and later destroyed, the church finally reopened in 1907 after undergoing a long period of restoration and recovery. Visit the building and admire its intricate brownstone construction, complete with stained-glass windows and a 51 m (167 ft) tall main spire. Wander inside and explore the vaulted interior, where you'll find decorative molding, ornate wood carvings, and a sizeable pipe organ. Be sure to check the church's online schedule if you're interested in attending a daily mass or other event. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist by using our Charleston trip itinerary maker app.

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Tours to Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

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Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,025 reviews

Google

4.8

By I3311EFjulies

Beautiful church and worth your time if you can either attend services or just take a look inside. They were open to visitors on Saturday.

Beautiful church and worth your time if you can either attend services or just take a look inside. They were open to visitors on Saturday. more »
By Polofamilyof5

We went to the Saturday, 5:30 mass while on vacation in Charleston, and we were welcomed by a parishioner who gave us some of the history of the parish. We definitely felt at home. Then after the...

We went to the Saturday, 5:30 mass while on vacation in Charleston, and we were welcomed by a parishioner who gave us some of the history of the parish. We definitely felt at home. Then after the... more »
By mississippimuse

Loved touring this Cathedral and also attend Mass on the weekend. Quite an extraordinary spiritual experience. Love it.

Loved touring this Cathedral and also attend Mass on the weekend. Quite an extraordinary spiritual experience. Love it. more »

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By Kelly Catania

While on vacation, we chose this cathedral to attend the Solemn mass. It was the most beautiful cathedral we’ve experienced in the USA. The singing, music, atmosphere and mass itself was a heavenly experience we will never forget. We highly encourage all to experience it. We wish we lived here to attend every day.

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By Susie Keel

Absolutely gorgeous cathedral. The stained glass tells the story of Jesus in such a beautiful way.

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By Elie Azzi

Gorgeous cathedral the stained glass is amazing, and the brick structure on the outside give is it a different character

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By Laura

A beautiful cathedral. We did not attend mass here but came in during our visit to Charleston. I can only imagine how lovely mass was at this church a hundred years ago. It is kept up well.

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By Johnnie Peyton

We visited over the 2020 holiday season and I must say that the cathedral is breathtaking! The architecture, the statues, the murals... everything was beautiful! And the holiday decorations were beautiful as well! A beautiful place for upward reflection and introspection!

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