St Joseph's Cathedral

St Joseph's Cathedral is a Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea featuring a polygonal tower topped with a spire and twin porches on its western front. The interior contains a seven-bay nave with side aisles and clerestory windows that allow light to filter from above.

Designed by architect Peter Paul Pugin, the cathedral opened in 1888 as an important addition to Swansea's Catholic community. It received its Grade II listed status in 1987 when it became the seat of Menevia diocese.

The interior displays carved angels playing music within the arch spandrels, and stone figures of St Patrick and St Benedict stand in recessed niches. These decorative elements reflect the religious artistic tradition maintained throughout the space.

The building sits in an accessible location along Greenhill and can be reached without difficulty from the main streets. The Gothic design and large windows fill the interior with natural light, making it easy to explore the space.

The organ inside comes from Lord Petre's estate at Woburn and was incorporated into the cathedral. The Stations of the Cross were acquired from Antwerp through a dedicated fundraising effort, shaping the interior's artistic character.

Location: Swansea

Location: Castle

Inception: 1888

Architects: Peter Paul Pugin

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Elevation above the sea: 46 m

Website: http://meneviacathedral.org

GPS coordinates: 51.63278,-3.94389

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:26