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Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph: A Downtown San Jose Landmark

Discover the historic Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in San Jose: a landmark of faith, art, and community in the heart of Silicon Valley.

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The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is a historic Roman Catholic church and a significant landmark. As the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Jose, it holds the distinction of being the first non-mission parish in California, with a history stretching back over 200 years.

A brief summary to Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

  • Monday 11:15 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 11:15 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 11:15 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 11:15 am-3 pm
  • Friday 11:15 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history, art, and architecture of the Cathedral Basilica. Tours are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
  • Visit during a religious service to experience the Cathedral's spiritual ambiance and hear the Odell pipe organ.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the San Jose Museum of Art, Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, and The Tech Interactive.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Cathedral Basilica is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines, including lines 22, 23, 522, 523, and 66, stop near the Cathedral. The Santa Clara Station (N) light rail stop is a 5-minute walk away. From San Jose Airport (SJC), you can take the line 60 bus and tram to reach the Cathedral in approximately 31 minutes for about $6. A short trip on the VTA will cost $2.50.

  • Walking

    The Cathedral Basilica is located in downtown San Jose and is easily walkable from many nearby points of interest. From Plaza de Cesar Chavez, it's just a short walk across the street. From San Jose, it is approximately a 45-minute walk.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach the Cathedral Basilica. A short taxi ride from San Jose Airport (SJC) to the Cathedral takes about 6 minutes and costs between $23 and $28. From other locations in downtown San Jose, a ride-share will likely cost between $10-$15.

  • Parking

    While the Cathedral Basilica does not offer on-site parking , several parking garages and lots are available nearby. Cityview Plaza Garage (8 E San Fernando St) is a 3-minute walk and costs $5 for 2 hours. Other options include the Pavilion Garage (150 S Second Street) and lots at Third and Santa Clara (25 South Third Street) and Market and San Pedro Square (45 North Market Street). Parking rates typically range from $4 per hour, with daily rates around $5-$7. Keep in mind that rates and availability may vary. Street parking is also available, with meters costing $4 for 2 hours.

Unlock the Best of Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

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Discover more about Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph stands as a testament to faith, history, and architectural beauty in the heart of San Jose. The original St. Joseph's Church, named San Jose de Guadalupe, was built on this site in 1803, marking it as the first non-mission parish in California, intended for Spanish settlers rather than Mission Indians. Over the years, the church has been rebuilt several times due to earthquakes and fire. The current structure, the fifth church on the site, showcases a blend of neoclassical, Romanesque, and Baroque styles, completed with its portico in 1884 and dome in 1885. Inside, visitors can admire the stained-glass windows, the Odell Organ with its 40,000 parts, and the detailed craftsmanship of the marble columns and hand-painted ceilings. The Cathedral Basilica is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant part of the San Jose community. It serves as a place of worship, hosts various religious services, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year, and offers guided tours to those interested in its history and architecture. In 1997, Pope John Paul II designated the church as a minor basilica, further cementing its importance. Today, it stands as a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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