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Church · Caiena, Caiena
Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur de Cayenne
The cathedral of Caiena, built between 1825 and 1833 to replace the old church of Saint-Nicolas and raised to cathedral status in 1934. It is a historic monument, with a wooden tower and a bright interior.
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 Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur de Cayenne
The Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur is the main Catholic church of French Guiana and the seat of the diocese of Caiena. It was decided in 1823 by Father Nicolas Guiller and Baron Milius, the colony's administrator, to replace the old church of Saint-Nicolas, which stood where Place Léopold-Héder is today. Construction began in 1825 and finished in 1833; the official inauguration took place in 1861.
In 1934, with the creation of the Guiana bishopric, the church was consecrated as a cathedral. In 1876 it received the high altar, the pulpit and the confessional from the chapel of the old prison on Îlet la Mère, a small islet off Caiena. In the 1950s it was extended to the east, and the ceiling, stained glass and gallery flooring were replaced.
The tower and portico were restored in the late 1990s and early 2000s, followed by the exterior walls. Since 2012 the whole building has been listed as a historic monument.
The cathedral is a few minutes from Place des Palmistes and the central market, and fits well into a walking tour of the old centre. As it is an active church, visits depend on mass times.
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 15 to 30 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, outside of mass times, combined with a walk through the central market and Place des Palmistes.
How to get there
It is located in the centre of Caiena, between rue François-Arago and rue Lallouette, about a 5-minute walk from Place des Palmistes.
Tip
Opening hours outside of masses vary; check before you go. Dress so your shoulders are covered, as in any active church.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur de Cayenne
When was the Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur built?
Construction took place from 1825 to 1833, and the official inauguration occurred in 1861. The church became a cathedral in 1934 with the creation of the diocese of Guiana.
What is curious about the cathedral?
The high altar, the pulpit and the confessional arrived in 1876 from the chapel of the former prison on Îlet la Mère, a small islet off Caiena.
Can you visit the cathedral outside of Mass?
Generally yes, during the hours when the church is open, which vary. Check before you go and respect services.