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Cathedral of the Epiphany: A Gothic Masterpiece in Sioux City

Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual heritage of the Cathedral of the Epiphany in Sioux City, Iowa. A landmark of faith and history.

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The Cathedral of the Epiphany in Sioux City, Iowa, is a stunning example of 19th-century German Gothic architecture. Serving as the seat of the Diocese of Sioux City, this historical landmark features intricate designs, exquisite stained-glass windows, and a serene atmosphere, making it a must-see destination for tourists and those seeking spiritual solace.

A brief summary to Cathedral of the Epiphany

  • Monday 10 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-2 pm
  • Friday 10 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during Mass to experience the cathedral's vibrant spiritual atmosphere. Check the schedule for services in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Latin.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral's history, architecture, and art. Contact the parish office for tour availability.
  • Explore the intricate stained-glass windows and their biblical depictions. Sunset offers particularly picturesque moments for photography.
  • Check out the Epiphany Center, the former school building, which now houses offices, a parish center, and religious education classrooms.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cathedral of the Epiphany is located at 1000 Douglas Street in downtown Sioux City. From the Martin Luther King Jr. Transportation Center at 505 Nebraska Street, walk north on Nebraska Street, then turn right onto 6th Street. Turn left onto Douglas Street; the Cathedral will be on your right. The walk is approximately 0.6 miles and should take about 12 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Sioux City Transit operates several bus routes that stop near the Cathedral of the Epiphany. From the Sioux Gateway Airport, take Route 6 to the Martin Luther King Jr. Transportation Center. From there, transfer to any route that stops along Douglas Street near the intersection of 10th Street. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Sioux City. A ride from the Sioux Gateway Airport to the Cathedral of the Epiphany is approximately 8 miles and costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near the Cathedral of the Epiphany. Metered street parking is available on Douglas Street and surrounding streets for free after 5 PM and on weekends. The Heritage Parking ramp on 3rd Street between Jackson and Jones Streets offers hourly and daily rates. The first hour is free, then $0.75/hour, with a daily maximum of $5.25. Overnight parking (7 PM to 7 AM) is $3.00.

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Discover more about Cathedral of the Epiphany

The Cathedral of the Epiphany stands as a testament to faith, history, and architectural splendor in the heart of Sioux City, Iowa. Its origins trace back to 1855 when Rev. Jeremiah Tracey celebrated the first Mass in Sioux City. The cathedral's true beginnings as St. Mary's Church started in 1891, under the guidance of Rev. Timothy Treacy, serving the growing number of Irish and German immigrant Catholics. The construction faced delays due to the economic depression of 1893, but the resilient parishioners worshipped in the basement of the present church for a decade. In 1902, Pope Leo XIII established the Diocese of Sioux City, and Bishop Philip Garrigan designated St. Mary's Church as the cathedral, initiating the completion of the upper church. The edifice was dedicated on September 8, 1904, as the Cathedral of the Epiphany. The cathedral is a fine example of 19th-century German Gothic design. The baptismal font was designed by local architect William L. Steele. Sixty-one stained glass windows, crafted by Franz Mayer & Co. in Munich, Germany, adorn the cathedral, depicting scenes from the Nativity, Epiphany, and the lives of the apostles. These windows were restored in the late 1980s. The reredos in the apse, side altars, and Stations of the Cross originate from the former St. Thomas Church in Emmetsburg, Iowa. Throughout its history, the Cathedral of the Epiphany has undergone several renovations. The addition of two spires in 1952 significantly altered its appearance. A major interior transformation in 1961 was followed by a restoration project in 1994, which aimed to revive the building's early 20th-century aesthetic. Today, the Cathedral of the Epiphany embraces diversity, offering Masses in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Latin.

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