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St. John's Cathedral: A Symbol of Resilience

Discover St. John's Cathedral: A resilient neo-Baroque landmark offering panoramic views and rich history in the heart of Antigua.

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St. John's Cathedral, an Anglican church in St. John's, Antigua, is a neo-Baroque architectural landmark. Rebuilt in 1845 after earthquakes destroyed previous structures, it stands as a testament to the island's history and the enduring strength of its community.

A brief summary to Saint John's Cathedral

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and stained glass windows.
  • Take a walk around the churchyard to see the old tombstones and reflect on the history of the site.
  • Check the church's website or call ahead for service times if you wish to attend a service.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in central St. John's, head towards Church Street. The cathedral's prominent towers are visible from a distance, serving as a guide. Walk along Church Street until you reach the cathedral. The entrance is located at 45F5+36M, Church St. The walk should take approximately 15-20 minutes from the cruise port.

  • Public Transport

    From the East or West Bus Station in St. John's, exit the terminal and walk towards the main road. Look for a minibus heading in the direction of Church Street. The fare is typically around $3-5 EC (Eastern Caribbean dollars). Ask the driver to drop you off near the cathedral. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the cathedral.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout St. John's. A taxi from the V.C. Bird International Airport to the cathedral will cost approximately $12 US. A short taxi ride within St. John's should cost between $6 to $10 US. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Ask to be dropped off at St. John's Cathedral on Church Street.

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Discover more about Saint John's Cathedral

St. John's Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, is perched on a hilltop in St. John's, Antigua, serving as the Cathedral Church of the Diocese of North Eastern Caribbean and Aruba. This imposing structure is the third iteration of the church, with its predecessors falling victim to devastating earthquakes in 1683 and 1745. The current cathedral, consecrated on July 25, 1848, showcases a neo-Baroque style, distinguished by its twin white towers that dominate the city skyline. Designed by architect Thomas Fuller, the cathedral was built on a fossilized reef, offering panoramic views of the island. The interior features a unique 'building within a building' design, with a pitch pine structure providing lateral reinforcement against earthquakes and hurricanes. The cathedral's south gate, dating back to 1789, is adorned with statues of St. John the Divine and St. John the Baptist, reportedly seized from a French ship in 1756. These figures add to the cathedral's rich history and cultural significance. While some have criticized its architecture over the years, St. John's Cathedral is now celebrated as one of the most impressive cathedrals in the West Indies.

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