Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Lafayette
Historic red-brick Romanesque Revival cathedral in Lafayette, LA, featuring stunning stained glass and a significant live oak tree.
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Experience the beauty post-snowstorm.
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Lafayette
Best Time
Experience the beauty post-snowstorm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic red-brick Romanesque Revival cathedral in Lafayette, LA, featuring stunning stained glass and a significant live oak tree.
"A beautiful place that totally captures the love, mercy and appreciation for all life."
Check Mass Schedules
Access may be limited during services. Confirm hours before your visit. :clock1:
Admire the Architecture
Even if not Catholic, appreciate the stunning Romanesque Revival design. :building_construction:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Striking Red-Brick Architecture
Admire the beautiful Romanesque Revival design and soaring bell tower of this historic landmark.
Stained Glass Windows
Marvel at the intricate stained glass depictions of the patron saint, reflecting centuries of faith.
Historic Cemetery
Explore the interesting cemetery located behind the cathedral, offering a quiet space for reflection.
Enormous Live Oak Tree
Stand in awe of the massive, protected live oak tree gracing the cathedral's yard.
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Planning Your Visit
Lafayette's Historic Gem
Plan Your Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Mass Schedules
Access may be limited during services. Confirm hours before your visit. :clock1:
Admire the Architecture
Even if not Catholic, appreciate the stunning Romanesque Revival design. :building_construction:
Reflect on History
The stained glass windows tell stories of faith and the area's past. :scroll:
Visit the Cemetery
A peaceful and interesting historical site behind the cathedral. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Mass Schedules
Access may be limited during services. Confirm hours before your visit. :clock1:
Admire the Architecture
Even if not Catholic, appreciate the stunning Romanesque Revival design. :building_construction:
Reflect on History
The stained glass windows tell stories of faith and the area's past. :scroll:
Visit the Cemetery
A peaceful and interesting historical site behind the cathedral. :evergreen_tree:
See the Grand Oak
Don't miss the impressively large live oak tree on the grounds. :deciduous_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist for its stunning red-brick architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Many appreciate the historical significance and the peaceful atmosphere, with the large live oak tree and cemetery adding to its charm. It's considered a beautiful and historically rich landmark in Lafayette.
"Very pretty red brick Cathedral with a truly enormous live oak tree protected in the yard and a really interesting cemetery out back. We arrived on Christmas day in the afternoon when it wasn't open ahead of the Mass but I think it's normally open."
Sheila Flood
"Beautiful place. It was raining when we came, but it didn't take away from the beauty of cathedral. The great big tree was amazing as well. Nice little historical place to stop if you are in the area."
Robin Jenks
"So beautiful. This gorgeous Cathedral totally captures the love, mercy and appreciation for all life as bestowed on humankind by God Our Father. Daily mass with faithful followers of “The Way” was a highlight of our vacation. The family that prays together stays together. The stained glass windows with statements of faith written in French reflect the faith, hope and love of past generations that trusted. Let us take a lesson from the history books! Come to see and experience this beautiful home of God."
Ann Boehm
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is located in Lafayette, Louisiana. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring Lafayette.
While specific parking details can vary, visitors typically find parking options near the cathedral. It's advisable to check for any posted signs or inquire locally upon arrival.
If you are staying in the downtown Lafayette area, walking to the cathedral might be feasible. It's a good idea to check a map for the most direct route from your accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is free, as it is a place of worship. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for any specific event ticketing or donation suggestions.
The cathedral's hours can vary, especially around religious services and holidays. Visitors have noted that it might not be open in the afternoons on Christmas Day, but is typically open for Mass. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit.
There is typically no admission fee to enter the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist for general visits. As a functioning church, donations are often appreciated to help with its upkeep and preservation.
Yes, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist holds regular masses. Attending a mass is a great way to experience the spiritual atmosphere and witness the community's devotion.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist features a striking Romanesque Revival architectural style, characterized by its red and white brick exterior, soaring bell tower, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Inside, visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows depicting the patron saint, the grand altar, and the overall serene atmosphere. The cathedral also has a rich history dating back to 1916.
Yes, the cemetery behind the cathedral is generally open to visitors and is noted as an interesting historical site to explore.
The large, protected live oak tree on the cathedral's grounds is a notable natural feature, adding to the beauty and historical ambiance of the site.
The cathedral hosts various events throughout the year, including religious services, musical performances, and historical ceremonies like the Blessing of the Animals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography during services.
The exterior, with its red-brick facade and bell tower, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the stained glass windows and the grand altar are particularly photogenic. The large live oak tree also makes for a picturesque shot. 
Yes, the stained glass windows are a highlight and are excellent subjects for photography. Their intricate details and vibrant colors are captivating.
Drone usage is typically restricted in areas around religious institutions and public spaces. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit to avoid regular mass times if you have very young children, to allow for more freedom of movement. The historical cemetery behind the cathedral could also be an interesting, albeit somber, point of exploration for older children interested in history.
⛪ Religious Visitors
Attending a mass provides an opportunity to connect with the local Catholic community and witness the living traditions of the church. The cathedral's history and its role as a center of worship make it a significant destination for religious pilgrims and those interested in the history of Catholicism in Louisiana.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Delve into the history of its construction, dating back to 1916, and its significance as a landmark in Lafayette. The stained glass windows, with their historical and religious narratives, are particularly noteworthy. Don't forget to explore the adjacent cemetery for further historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The cathedral's interior is equally captivating, featuring stunning stained glass windows that narrate stories of faith and the patron saint. These windows, some with inscriptions in French, reflect the deep-rooted cultural and religious history of the Acadiana region. Visitors often remark on the sense of peace and reverence that permeates the space, making it a significant landmark for both spiritual reflection and historical appreciation.
Beyond its religious significance, the cathedral grounds are home to a notable historical cemetery and a magnificent, protected live oak tree, adding layers of natural and historical interest to the site. These elements contribute to the cathedral's unique charm and its importance as a cultural cornerstone of Lafayette.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details
Inside, the artistry continues with a breathtaking array of stained glass windows. These windows are not merely decorative; they serve as visual narratives, depicting scenes from scripture and the life of the patron saint. The craftsmanship involved in these windows is a significant draw for visitors, offering a colorful and inspiring experience.
+1Beyond the windows, the cathedral's interior design emphasizes a sense of sacred space, often enhanced by floral arrangements during special occasions like Easter or Christmas, creating a truly immersive and beautiful environment for worshippers and visitors alike.
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