Ascend the large staircase to this hilltop delight and admire the stained-glass windows and dark pitch pine furnishing of the interior.
St. John’s Cathedral is a 19th-century church recognizable by its twin towers. It stands at the top of a hill that is accessible via an outdoor staircase and can be seen from most parts of the city. Capture photos of this iconic church as a remembrance of your trip to St. John’s.
Climb the stairs to reach the 18th-century iron gates at the southern façade of the church and inspect its intriguing pillars. These columns contain engravings of the biblical figures of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Divine. Gaze up at the white cross that marks the roof of the whitewashed façade. The church is flanked by its iconic twin towers, which are 70 feet (21 metres) tall.
Enter the church and admire the large nave, which is mostly made up of elegant wooden features. Sit at one of the handmade wooden pews and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The pitch pine interior is sturdy, built to withstand earthquakes and hurricanes. Admire the array of stained-glass windows, through which light shines creating colourful artwork.
Browse the range of intriguing ecclesiastical artifacts on sale in the small gift shop. Stroll leisurely through the solemn and scenic cemetery and hear the breeze rustling the leaves of the trees.
The church is also known as St. John the Divine. It is the Cathedral Church of the Diocese of North Eastern Caribbean and Aruba. Note that the original incarnation was constructed in 1683, before being rebuilt in 1746 and again in its current form in 1845. Earthquakes were responsible for the destruction of the first two churches on this location. Consider leaving a donation to help fund the restoration and upkeep of the church.
St. John’s Cathedral is in the heart of St. John’s town. Ride a bus to the East Bus Station and walk west for a few minutes to get here. See nearby landmarks, such as the Spring Gardens Moravian Church, the Ebenezer Methodist Church and King’s Casino.
