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San Carlos Cathedral, Salinas Valley Travel Guide

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Discover California's oldest stone building and continuously operating parish, a beautiful cathedral with a rich history in Monterey.

The Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo, also known as the Royal Presidio Chapel, is a historic Catholic cathedral in Monterey, California. It stands as the oldest continuously operating parish and the oldest stone building in California, dating back to 1794. With its Spanish Colonial architecture and rich history, the cathedral offers a glimpse into California's past.

A brief summary to San Carlos Cathedral

  • Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-4 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring San Carlos Cathedral.

  • Check the cathedral's website for mass times and special events to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Explore the Heritage Center Museum next to the church to learn about the Presidio of Monterey's early history.
  • Take a walk around the grounds to see the Junipero Oak, the Lourdes grotto replica, and the surrounding gardens.
  • Visit nearby landmarks such as the Dennis the Menace Park, Lake El Estero, and Monterey State Historic Park.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Monterey, the Cathedral is easily accessible on foot. From Alvarado Street, head east on Franklin Street, then turn left onto Church Street. The Cathedral will be on your right. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) buses serve the downtown Monterey area. Several routes stop near the Cathedral. From the Monterey Transit Plaza, take any MST line that stops near Alvarado Street and Church Street. The bus fare is typically $2-3. From the bus stop, walk to the Cathedral.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Monterey. A short ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Cannery Row to the Cathedral will typically cost $8-$15, depending on traffic and the specific service.

  • Parking

    Ample street parking is available near the Cathedral. Metered parking is enforced from 9 AM to 8 PM daily. Several public parking lots are also nearby, including Lot #4 at Franklin and Van Buren. Metered street parking and most public lots charge around $1.75 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12. Check posted signs for specific rates and restrictions.

Discover more about San Carlos Cathedral

San Carlos Cathedral, also called the Royal Presidio Chapel, is a significant historical and religious landmark in Monterey, California. Founded in 1770 by Father Junípero Serra, it initially served as the chapel for the Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo. A year later, the mission relocated to Carmel-by-the-Sea, but the church remained as a Royal Chapel for the soldiers guarding the Spanish Presidio of Monterey.The original 1770-71 church was destroyed by fire in 1789, and the current sandstone structure was built between 1791 and 1794 by local Indian workers. The cathedral is the oldest continuously operating parish and the oldest stone building in California. It showcases Spanish Colonial architecture with Moorish influences, evident in its ornamental arches and sandstone carvings. The interior features a serene atmosphere, a stunning altar, ornate woodwork, and beautiful stained-glass windows.In 1849, the chapel became the Pro-Cathedral of the Diocese of Monterey. Today, San Carlos Cathedral is the smallest cathedral in the United States and one of the oldest buildings serving as a cathedral in the country. Visitors can explore the cathedral's grounds, including the Junipero Oak and a replica of the Lourdes grotto. The Heritage Center Museum next to the church displays artifacts from the Presidio of Monterey's early history.

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