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Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption: A San Francisco Icon

A modern architectural marvel in San Francisco, blending faith and innovation with its soaring design and stunning stained glass.

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The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, located in San Francisco, is a striking example of modern architecture, blending Catholic tradition with innovative design. Completed in 1971, its soaring hyperbolic paraboloid structure and stained glass windows offer a unique spiritual and visual experience.

A brief summary to Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the Easter or Christmas seasons for special decorations and musical performances.
  • Check the cathedral's website for Mass schedules and concert listings.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral's architecture and history.
  • Free parking is available at the Gough Street entrance, but it's limited.
  • The Gift Shop offers a variety of religious items and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, several Muni bus lines provide access to the cathedral. The 38 Geary bus stops at Gough and Geary, directly across from the cathedral (westbound). The 38 Geary also stops at Geary and Laguna (eastbound), a short walk away. The 49 and 31 also stop nearby. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 if using the MuniMobile app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Union Square will cost approximately $15-20 and take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Direct your driver to 1111 Gough Street at Geary Boulevard. Taxi fares in San Francisco start at $4.15, with additional charges per mile and waiting time.

  • Walking

    From Japantown, walk south on Fillmore Street, then turn left onto Geary Boulevard. Continue east on Geary, and the cathedral will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. Be aware of pedestrian crossings on Geary Boulevard.

  • Driving

    If driving, free parking is available at the Gough Street entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. Several parking garages are also located within a few blocks of the Cathedral. Rates at nearby garages typically range from $2 to $5 per hour. Closest parking garages include 1314 Post St. and 1150 Post St. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption

The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, also known as Saint Mary's Cathedral, stands as the principal church of the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Located in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood, it serves as the mother church for Catholic faithful in Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo counties. This modern cathedral replaced two previous churches of the same name, the first built in 1854 and the second destroyed by arson in 1962. The current cathedral, completed in 1971, is a collaborative design by local architects John Michael Lee, Paul A. Ryan, and Angus McSweeney, along with internationally renowned architects Pier Luigi Nervi and Pietro Belluschi. Its design embodies the geometric principle of the hyperbolic paraboloid, featuring a structure that curves upward from its four corners, meeting in a cross. The cathedral measures 255 feet square and reaches a height of 190 feet, crowned by a 55-foot golden cross. The interior is equally impressive, with vast windows offering panoramic views of San Francisco. Stained glass windows in red, blue, green and gold represent the four elements: fire, water, earth and air. The kinetic sculpture suspended high above the sanctuary floor adds to the atmosphere of meditative peace. The red brick flooring pays homage to early Mission architecture and the region's rich heritage. While its modern design was initially controversial, the cathedral has become a beloved landmark. Its unique architecture has earned it nicknames like "Our Lady of Maytag" due to its resemblance to a washing machine agitator. Today, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption attracts thousands of visitors annually, drawn to its blend of Catholic tradition and modern architectural innovation.

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