Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral that dates back to the mid-19th century, with a breathtaking interior and awe-inspiring stained glass windows.

In the heart of Savannah, Georgia, The cathedral is widely regarded as one of the most impressive examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the United States, and it is a beloved landmark in the city.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist was first established in 1799, but the current building was constructed in the late 19th century. The church was designed by architect Francis Baldwin, who drew inspiration from the great Gothic cathedrals of Europe. The cathedral was completed in 1896 and has been an important part of Savannah’s religious and cultural landscape ever since.

One of the most striking features of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is its towering spires. The church’s twin spires rise over 200 feet into the air, making them visible from throughout the city. The spires are clad in copper and are topped with ornate crosses, which sparkle in the sunlight.

Inside, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is just as impressive as its exterior. The church’s soaring nave is lined with intricate stained-glass windows, which were imported from Germany and depict scenes from the Bible. The windows are illuminated by natural light, which filters through the richly colored glass and creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The cathedral’s altar is another breathtaking feature. The altar is made of white Carrara marble and is adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings. Above the altar hangs a stunning reredos, which depicts the life of Christ in intricate detail. The reredos is flanked by statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, which add to the grandeur of the space.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is also home to a number of beautiful chapels, which are dedicated to various saints and religious figures. The Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel, for example, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and features a stunning painting of the Madonna and Child. The St. Joseph Chapel, meanwhile, is dedicated to St. Joseph and features a beautiful stained-glass window depicting the saint.

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is not only a beautiful church, but it is also an important part of Savannah’s cultural heritage. The church has played a significant role in the city’s history, and it has hosted a number of important events and figures over the years. For example, the church was the site of the funeral Mass for General James Oglethorpe, the founder of Savannah. The church has also hosted a number of important religious figures, including Pope John Paul II, who visited the cathedral during his trip to the United States in 1987.

Today, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a thriving parish and a beloved landmark in Savannah. The church welcomes visitors from around the world, who come to admire its stunning architecture and to attend Mass. Whether you’re a devout Catholic or simply a lover of beautiful architecture, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a must-see destination in Savannah, read more info here.