Cathedral Square: Mobile's Historic Heart
Discover Mobile's historic Cathedral Square: where history, culture, and community converge in a beautiful downtown setting.
Cathedral Square, bordered by North Claiborne, Dauphin, North Jackson, and Conti Streets, is a captivating space where history and modern Mobile converge. This verdant park is a hub for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape or a taste of the city's culture. Originally, this square was part of the city's 18th-century Catholic cemetery, Campo Santo, established by French colonists. As Mobile expanded in 1819, most burials were moved to Church Street Graveyard, though remains were still found along Conti Street as late as the 1890s. The area then became a commercial district until 1979, when buildings were demolished to create a public park facing the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. The current park layout, implemented in 1996, mirrors the architectural elements of the Cathedral-Basilica. Brick sidewalks trace the cathedral's walls, and a semicircular colonnade with fountains echoes the apse. The Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, designed by Claude Beroujon, is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture. Its cornerstone was laid in 1835, and it was consecrated in 1850. Today, Cathedral Square hosts numerous cultural events and is the focal point of Mobile's Artwalk celebrations. It's a social crossroads and a center for the Mobile arts community.
Local tips
- Check the City of Mobile events calendar for festivals, markets, and concerts held in the square.
- Visit during the Fall Market in the Park for local produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment.
- Take a stroll around the square to admire the architecture and the fountains.
A brief summary to Cathedral Square
- 300 Conti St, Mobile, Central Business District, Alabama, 36602, US
- +1251-208-1650
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From Dauphin Street, a central thoroughfare in downtown Mobile, walk towards Conti Street. Dauphin Street runs parallel to Conti Street, making it a straightforward walk. Turn left onto Conti Street and walk for approximately two blocks to Cathedral Square, at 300 Conti St. This is a short walk through downtown Mobile.
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Public Transport
The Wave Transit System provides bus service in Mobile. Check local bus schedules for routes with stops near Dauphin Street or Government Street, close to Cathedral Square. Disembark at the nearest stop to Conti Street and walk a short distance to the square. A single ride fare is $1.25, and a day pass is $3.00. Check the Wave Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown Mobile. Request a ride to Cathedral Square at 300 Conti St, Mobile, AL 36602. The cost for a short trip within downtown Mobile typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the distance and demand.
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Driving
Navigate to the intersection of Conti Street and Claiborne Street. Limited metered street parking is available around Cathedral Square for $1.00 per hour. Several parking garages and lots are within walking distance, such as the garage at 254 Government Street. Meter bagging for special events is available for $10 a day per meter by contacting the City of Mobile Parking Office.
