The Cathedral of the Holy Cross is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston and the seat of its archbishop. Rising on Washington Street in the South End, this Gothic Revival landmark was designed by architect Patrick Keely and dedicated in 1875. It is among the largest Catholic cathedrals in New England, with a soaring nave, stained-glass windows, and a grand pipe organ that anchors the worship space.
Visitors can attend Mass or, outside of services, step inside to admire the cathedral’s vaulted ceilings, marble altar, and richly colored glass. The building underwent a major restoration completed in recent years, returning much of its 19th-century splendor. Because it is an active house of worship, hours for visitors vary around the liturgical schedule, so consult the cathedral’s official website or the Archdiocese of Boston for current visiting times, Mass times, and any event closures.
Good to know
- The mother church and cathedral seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston
- Gothic Revival design by Patrick Keely, dedicated in 1875; one of New England’s largest Catholic cathedrals
- An active house of worship, so visitor access works around the Mass schedule
- Check the cathedral or Archdiocese website for current visiting and Mass times before you go
Getting there
- Address: 1400 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118
- Neighborhood: South End
- Nearest T: Tufts Medical Center (Orange Line), about a 5-minute walk