Saints Peter and Paul Church San Francisco
A majestic Italian Gothic Catholic church in North Beach, San Francisco, known for its twin spires and rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience vibrant community and mass
Saints Peter and Paul Church San Francisco
Best Time
Experience vibrant community and mass
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic Italian Gothic Catholic church in North Beach, San Francisco, known for its twin spires and rich history.
"A stunning church with a timeless presence, a must-visit for history and architecture lovers."
👟 Wear comfy walking shoes
North Beach has hills! Exploring on foot is best with good footwear.
📸 Capture the architecture
The exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Twin Spires
Exterior
Iconic Italian Gothic architecture with majestic twin spires dominating the North Beach skyline.
Stained Glass Windows
Interior
Admire the intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors of the stunning stained glass windows.
Joe DiMaggio's Baptismal Site
Interior/Exterior
See where baseball legend Joe DiMaggio was baptized and took iconic wedding photos.
Washington Square Park
Adjacent
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this popular park, with the church as a stunning backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Navigating North Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfy walking shoes
North Beach has hills! Exploring on foot is best with good footwear.
📸 Capture the architecture
The exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Walk from ferry to St Peter and Paul -- what not to miss?
🙏 Be respectful
It's an active place of worship; maintain quiet and reverence.
📅 Check mass times
Mass is held in English, Cantonese, and Italian.
Catholic Church recommendations?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfy walking shoes
North Beach has hills! Exploring on foot is best with good footwear.
📸 Capture the architecture
The exterior and interior offer fantastic photo opportunities.
🙏 Be respectful
It's an active place of worship; maintain quiet and reverence.
📅 Check mass times
Mass is held in English, Cantonese, and Italian.
🚶 Explore North Beach
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like City Lights Books or Vesuvio Cafe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Saints Peter and Paul Church for its stunning Italian Gothic architecture, particularly its iconic twin spires and beautiful interior details like stained glass windows. Many appreciate its historical significance, its role as a community hub in North Beach, and its connection to local legends like Joe DiMaggio. While generally well-received, some visitors note the importance of respecting the church as a place of worship.
"Saints Peter and Paul Church in North Beach, San Francisco
I have lived in North Beach, San Francisco, for almost 25 years. One of the most interesting places here is Saints Peter and Paul Church. Whenever I visit Washington Square, I enjoy taking photos of this beautiful church.
Saints Peter and Paul Church is a key part of the North Beach skyline. This Roman Catholic church has a rich history linked to the local community. The church stands on Filbert Street, next to Washington Square Park, but it didn’t always be there.
The original church was built in 1884 at the corner of Filbert Street and Grant Avenue. Sadly, the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire destroyed it. However, the community wanted to rebuild. They laid the cornerstone for the new church in 1913, and by 1924, the church we see today, with its stunning twin spires, was completed.
One fascinating part of the church's history is its connection to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. Joe grew up in North Beach and was baptized here. When he married his first wife, Dorothy Arnold, in 1939, they took their wedding photos on the steps of the church. Later, when he married Marilyn Monroe in 1954, they returned to take photos as well.
The church’s architecture is beautiful. It is designed in the Italian Gothic style, featuring two tall spires. Inside, you will find stunning stained glass windows and intricate details that show great craftsmanship.
Saints Peter and Paul Church means more than just a building; it represents resilience and community. It has been a place of worship, a cultural center, and a source of hope for many generations of North Beach residents. Over the years, it has hosted many weddings, baptisms, and community events.
Visiting Washington Square and seeing Saints Peter and Paul Church is always a special experience for me. There is something timeless about this place that continues to inspire. Whether you are a local or a visitor, I highly recommend stopping by to appreciate this amazing piece of San Francisco’s history.
Next time you are in North Beach, be sure to check out Saints Peter and Paul Church. You might want to snap a few photos to capture its charm!"
Afshin Afshar-Ghasemlou
"Beautiful Roman Catholic Church. Unfortunately I could not attend the church service, but it seemed well-maintained and open-to-public church. The church is a religious facility and I believe only those who can respect it should be allowed to visit. But if you are, this must be a good place to discover another historic side of San Francisco.
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Visited again. And I confirmed it is a wonderful place to pay a visit in San Francisco to notice the history of this historic city. Also I really hope visitors to be respectful of the faith and not to disturb those who seek help in this house of God."
Gak “GK” Kam
"A charming church in North Beach. The architecture is outstanding. Its interior is filled with glamorous columns, sculptures and paintings. Mass is given in English, Cantonese and Italian."
Ivan Martinez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in North Beach at Filbert Street and Washington Square. You can walk from the Ferry Building, but be prepared for hills. Alternatively, take the F line streetcar or a bus to Washington Square. Some visitors suggest walking down California Street to see cable cars before heading to the church.
Parking in North Beach can be challenging. Street parking is limited and often metered. There are several parking garages in the vicinity, but they can be expensive. Consider public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Yes, it's a walkable distance, but it involves uphill sections. You can walk north on the Embarcadero and then head inland, or take the F line streetcar towards the church.
A scenic route involves walking up Sansome Street and then taking the Filbert Street steps, which lead you directly to the church. This route also passes by Coit Tower.
Yes, several Muni bus lines serve the North Beach area, and the F line streetcar is a popular option for reaching Washington Square, which is adjacent to the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general entry to Saints Peter and Paul Church is free. It is a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to enter and admire its architecture and atmosphere.
The church is generally open to visitors during daylight hours, but specific times can vary. It's best to check their official website or call ahead if you plan to visit at a particular time, especially for services.
Mass is celebrated in English, Cantonese, and Italian. Sunday mass times are typically around 10:30 AM, but it's advisable to confirm the schedule as it can change.
There is no admission fee to enter the church. Donations are always appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic landmark.
Yes, visitors are welcome to attend any of the scheduled services. It's a great way to experience the community and the spiritual atmosphere of the church.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the church, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash photography, which can be disruptive.
The exterior, with its twin spires and grand facade, is a popular spot. Inside, the stained glass windows, carved pews, and altar area offer beautiful photographic subjects.
While generally permitted, it's always best to be mindful of ongoing services or private events. If in doubt, ask a church official.
Many visitors enjoy architectural photography, capturing the Gothic style. Film photography is also popular, highlighting the textures and light within the church.
Yes, the steps are a famous spot, particularly for their historical connection to Joe DiMaggio. Be mindful of other visitors and any ongoing events.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The original church was built in 1884 but destroyed by the 1906 earthquake. The current Italian Gothic-style church, with its iconic twin spires, was completed in 1924. It has deep ties to the Italian immigrant community and North Beach.
The church is designed in the Italian Gothic style, characterized by its soaring twin spires, pointed arches, and intricate detailing.
It's a landmark in North Beach, representing resilience and community for generations. It's also known for its connection to Joe DiMaggio and its role in local cultural events.
Yes, baseball legend Joe DiMaggio was baptized here and took wedding photos on its steps.
Inside, you'll find beautiful stained glass windows, ornate columns, sculptures, paintings, and a depiction of Christ above the tabernacle.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, emphasize the importance of being quiet and respectful inside the church. Consider attending a Sunday mass if your children are comfortable with longer periods of sitting, as it can be a unique cultural experience. The surrounding North Beach area also offers family-friendly dining options.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring Washington Square Park and walking through the charming streets of North Beach. Many of the recommended nearby attractions, like City Lights Booksellers, are also free to browse. For affordable eats, look for local bakeries or casual cafes in the neighborhood.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during different times of day to experience varying light conditions. The steps of the church are also iconic, especially for those interested in historical photography, referencing its connection to Joe DiMaggio. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid disruptive flash photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Italian Gothic Style
Inside, the architectural beauty continues with ornate columns, sculptures, and paintings that create a rich and immersive atmosphere. The stained glass windows are particularly noteworthy, casting colorful light that enhances the spiritual ambiance. The church's design is not just aesthetically pleasing; it's intended to inspire awe and reverence, serving as a testament to the faith and dedication of its builders and the community it serves.
The church's resilience is also part of its story. After the original structure was destroyed in the 1906 earthquake, the community rallied to rebuild, completing the current edifice in 1924. This act of rebuilding underscores the enduring spirit of the church and its importance to the people of North Beach.
A Community Hub: History and Local Ties
The church holds a special place in local lore, most famously for its connection to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. He was baptized here and later took iconic wedding photos on its steps, cementing its place in San Francisco's cultural memory. This connection adds a layer of historical intrigue for visitors interested in the city's past.
Over the years, Saints Peter and Paul has hosted countless weddings, baptisms, and community events, reflecting its integral role in the lives of its parishioners. Its resilience, demonstrated by its rebuilding after the 1906 earthquake, speaks to its enduring significance. Today, it continues to be a vibrant place of worship and a beloved landmark, appreciated by locals and visitors alike for its history and charm.
Exploring North Beach: A Perfect Pairing
For those who enjoy walking, several Reddit users suggest incorporating the church into a broader exploration of North Beach. This can include visiting iconic spots like City Lights Booksellers, enjoying a coffee at Cafe Zoetrope, or sampling pastries from Maison Nico. The area is also known for its historic Italian heritage, which is palpable in its atmosphere and culinary offerings.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider the walk up to Coit Tower for panoramic city views, or explore the unique Greenwich Steps or Filbert Steps for a more scenic descent back towards the Embarcadero. These routes offer a chance to see hidden redwood groves and experience the city's distinctive topography.
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