Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
A breathtaking French Gothic masterpiece in Savannah, Georgia, offering a glimpse of European grandeur and spiritual serenity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking French Gothic masterpiece in Savannah, Georgia, offering a glimpse of European grandeur and spiritual serenity.
"Felt transported to Europe stepping into this cathedral, rivaling those found across the ocean."
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship.
💰 Donation Appreciated
Entry is by donation; use QR codes for easy contributions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
French Gothic Architecture
Exterior
Marvel at the soaring spires and intricate stonework that transport you straight to Europe.
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Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Sunlight streams through vibrant, detailed stained glass, illuminating the sacred space with color.
Grand Organ
Interior
Be awed by the sheer scale and craftsmanship of the massive wooden organ, a testament to human ingenuity.
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Donation & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship.
💰 Donation Appreciated
Entry is by donation; use QR codes for easy contributions.
🚶♀️ Steep Walk Up
Be prepared for an incline if walking from the harbor.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of ongoing services.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting this active place of worship.
💰 Donation Appreciated
Entry is by donation; use QR codes for easy contributions.
🚶♀️ Steep Walk Up
Be prepared for an incline if walking from the harbor.
📸 Photography Allowed
Capture the beauty, but be mindful of ongoing services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cathedral's stunning architecture and intricate details, often comparing its beauty to European cathedrals. The stained glass windows and grand organ are frequently highlighted as breathtaking features. While entry is by donation, most find the experience well worth the contribution. Some visitors note the steep walk from the harbor and occasional access limitations due to services.
"Beautiful architecture. The details on the statues were incredible. Not too busy. Tours start at 10am."
Lisa Stratton
"Stunning catholic cathedral. Definitely the biggest and most beautiful in the city. Definitely take the time to see it."
Yuliia
"We stopped by this beautiful church as it was just up the hill from our suite in a Jellybean house. You can go in on your own and they had a
young adult / student available to answer any questions.
The outside with all the stonework and 2 large clock towers was magnificent! Inside they had many beautiful stained glass windows and a ginormous wood organ that is a feat of human ingenuity!
Entrance is by donation and they have QR codes (barcode) that you can use your phone to donate $5, $10 or $20. Stop by of you’re in St John’s!"
Patrick Graham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral is located in the heart of Savannah, Georgia. If arriving from the harbor, it's about a 15-minute walk with a steep incline. Many visitors find it easily accessible from nearby accommodations.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, street parking may be available in the surrounding area. Consider public transport or ride-sharing if driving is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours typically start at 10 am, but it's advisable to check for any service schedules that might affect visitor access.
Entry is by donation. Suggested amounts are $5, $10, or $20 per person, often payable via QR codes.
Photography is generally allowed, allowing you to capture the stunning architecture and details.
While tours start at 10 am, booking in advance is not usually required for general visits. However, for specific group tours or events, it's best to inquire directly.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The Cathedral is a magnificent example of French Gothic architecture, characterized by its soaring spires and detailed stonework.
Don't miss the breathtaking stained glass windows that cast colorful light throughout the interior, and the impressive, ginormous wooden organ. The intricate details on the statues are also remarkable.
Yes, it is a working Cathedral with a strong congregation. Visitors are welcome, but it's important to be mindful of its sacred purpose.
The Cathedral hosts various events, including Christmas season celebrations It's also known for its Blessing of the Animals ceremony in NYC, though this specific event is not at the Savannah location.
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A Reddit user shared a photo of a LEGO replica of the Basilica of St. John the Baptist in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, highlighting its iconic facade. This is a separate structure from the Savannah Cathedral.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its dominant spires and stonework, offers stunning photographic opportunities.
While photography is generally permitted, it's crucial to be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid using flash if it might be disruptive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Given that it's a place of worship, it's a good opportunity to teach children about respectful behavior in sacred spaces. The donation system is straightforward, and the walk from the harbor, while steep, can be managed with younger children if paced appropriately.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Inside, the interplay of light through the stained glass windows creates stunning photographic opportunities, with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Capture the grandeur of the massive wooden organ
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
+1 Visitors often describe feeling transported to another continent upon entering its hallowed halls. The exterior is a masterpiece of design, featuring detailed carvings and a magnificent facade. Inside, the experience continues with vibrant stained glass windows that bathe the space in a kaleidoscope of colors as sunlight filters through.
Another significant feature is the ginormous wooden organ, a true feat of human ingenuity and craftsmanship.
A Working Cathedral
This means that while visitors are warmly welcomed to explore its beauty, a sense of reverence and respect is paramount. Services, weddings, and other religious ceremonies are regularly held within its walls.
The presence of a dedicated congregation means that the Cathedral is maintained with care and devotion. Visitors often note the helpfulness of young adults or students available to answer questions, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Social
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