Cathedral of Saint Paul, National Shrine of the Apostle Paul

The Cathedral of Saint Paul is a Roman Catholic church in the capital of Minnesota and serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The central dome rises 186 feet (57 meters) above the city and is surrounded by massive stone walls and copper cladding.

Architect Emmanuel Louis Masqueray designed the building in 1906 and drew inspiration from classical European models of church construction. The church became the spiritual home for the growing Catholic community in the Twin Cities region.

The interior holds biblical scenes in colored glass that cast warm light across the nave on sunny days. Visitors see sculptures and religious figures that mark central moments in Catholic tradition.

Guided tours of the interior take place daily and offer details about construction methods and artworks. Religious services are held regularly, and visitors should remain quiet during Mass.

The building stands within the Historic Hill District and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the United States. Its hilltop location makes the dome visible from many points across the city.

Location: Saint Paul

Inception: 1906

Architects: Emmanuel Louis Masqueray

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Part of: Historic Hill District

Address: 239 Selby Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102

Website: http://cathedralsaintpaul.org

GPS coordinates: 44.94694,-93.10889

Latest update: December 20, 2025 00:46