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Church · Lafayette, Louisiana
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
A brick Catholic cathedral from 1916 in downtown Lafayette, with an oak over 450 years old beside it and an old cemetery with raised graves.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
St. John Evangelist Cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Lafayette, one of the most Catholic dioceses in the United States. The current building, from 1916, mixes Romanesque and Dutch influences, with alternating red and white bricks, domed towers and stained glass.
Beside the church stands the St. John Oak, a living oak more than 450 years old, according to the Southern tree‑registry association. Its branches spread wide over the lawn and provide shade for visitors.
Behind the cathedral, St. John Cemetery has above‑ground tombs, as is common in southern Louisiana because of the high water table. Founders of the city are buried there.
The cathedral is active and is a few blocks from downtown, where the restaurants and music bars are located.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to one hour.
Best time
On weekdays, outside Mass times. Morning light highlights the façade.
How to get there
It is on St. John Street, downtown, within walking distance of the restaurants and Jefferson Street.
Tip
Respect religious services. The oak and the cemetery can be viewed during the day without entering the church.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
How old is the cathedral oak of Lafayette?
The St. John Oak is over 450 years old, according to the organization that catalogs the South’s ancient oaks.
Can you visit Lafayette Cathedral?
Yes, outside service times. The oak and the cemetery are next to it and can be seen during the day.
Why are the graves above ground?
Because the water table is high in southern Louisiana, above-ground graves became a regional tradition.