Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph, Catholic cathedral in downtown San Jose, United States

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph is a Catholic place of worship in downtown San Jose with an impressive domed interior. The space features colorful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork throughout its walls and ceilings.

This building was constructed in 1877 and represents the fifth church structure on this site after previous ones were destroyed by earthquakes and fire. The succession of churches shows how the community repeatedly rebuilt its house of worship.

The church is named for Saint Joseph, patron saint of the Catholic Church and namesake of San Jose. Inside, Latin Vulgate quotes about Joseph run along the top of the walls, among them Matthew 1:20 and Luke 2:51. The stained glass windows, read counterclockwise from the east transept, show scenes such as the Agony in the Garden, the Crucifixion, the Holy Family, the Resurrection and the Ascension.

The building is located downtown and easy to find, with parking available in nearby paid lots and on the street. Plan for flexible visiting times, especially during religious services and scheduled events.

The Odell pipe organ, built in 1886 by the J. H. and C. S. Odell Company of Yonkers, New York, is the only such Odell instrument surviving in its original condition in the United States. It has 40,000 parts and 27 ranks of 60 pipes each, and was restored in 1987–90.