Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a Roman Catholic church in Saint John featuring Gothic Revival architecture throughout its structure. The building displays pointed arches, ribbed vaulting, and a soaring interior that creates a sense of vertical emphasis.

Construction started in the mid-1800s when local volunteers initiated the first phases of the project. Work continued over several decades using materials sourced from the surrounding region, gradually establishing it as a major parish church.

The name reflects Catholic devotion to Mary, a theme visible throughout the interior design and decoration. The building has served as the spiritual center for the city's Catholic community since its completion.

The building is located in the Waterloo neighborhood and is easy to reach on foot with clear landmarks along the main street. Visitors should check opening times for tours or services in advance, as these may vary with the season.

The tower top has served as a sea landmark since the 1800s, helping ship captains identify Saint John's harbor entrance. This practical function merged spiritual architecture with maritime navigation, making the building part of the harbor's working landscape.