St. Raphael's Cathedral

St. Raphael's Cathedral is a brick church in Dubuque that combines Gothic and Italianate features with fourteen wooden columns supporting three interior naves. The ensemble also includes a rectory, former convent, and school building that together form a cohesive district representing different eras of construction.

Construction of the cathedral took place in 1861, though the Catholic community in Dubuque dates back to 1833. This early congregation played a foundational role in establishing the Catholic Church throughout Iowa during its formative years.

The building serves as the spiritual center for the local Catholic community and hosts regular worship services alongside musical performances that draw people from across the region.

Visitors can explore the building and its architectural details both from outside and through guided tours that explain more about the history and structure. The best time to visit is outside of service hours, when you can view the interiors and artwork undisturbed.

Several bishops and archbishops who were instrumental in building the Catholic Church throughout Iowa are buried within the building, making it a place of deep spiritual importance. These burials connect this location to the broad religious history of the entire region.

Location: Dubuque

Inception: 1861

Architectural style: Italianate architecture, Gothic Revival

Made from material: brick

Part of: Cathedral Historic District

Address: 231 Bluff St.

Website: https://cathedralstpats.org

GPS coordinates: 42.49477,-90.66737

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02