The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi

The cathedral is beautiful inside, radiating a deep sense of community. There’s a prayer book where visitors can write down the names of loved ones they want prayers for. A heart-shaped wooden stand holds rosaries in different colors - I picked a pink one. The crucifix glows in a glorious shade of orange, surrounded by images of saints, while the stained-glass windows fill the place with vibrant light. There is also a lovely store inside that adds to the charm of the place.

What a beautiful Cathedral inside and outside. We went in a Saturday 4PM schedule for Sunday Mass. An archbishop officiated the mass. The members of the choir's voices, are so heavenly. One of the best mass I have attended to. They are so welcoming!

This is a beautiful architectural and artistic place to visit. Though I am not Catholic, the basilica is a place of beauty and peace to worship Jesus. Everywhere you look there is a memorial to Christ sacrifice. Which is essential to redemption. As a Protestant, I would have loved to see a memorial to His resurrection. This is victory over death and proof that God has accepted this sacrifice and promises to fulfill all that was given to Jesus, we have our assurance that our salvation is secure.

This church offers a European-like atmosphere, making it a standout attraction. From the outside, it’s large and picturesque, while the inside provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s chaos. A unique feature is the Baptismal Font, which I haven’t encountered in other churches. It’s definitely a must-visit for anyone seeking tranquility and a distinctive experience.

The cathedral is a prominent landmark near Santa Fe’s historic plaza, and the docents are friendly and eager to share details regarding the restoration process, including the extensive painting and window preparations. Choir concerts seem to occur frequently, and the grounds are tree-lined and peaceful.

This is a Beautiful place to sit with the Lord. The architecture, the ambiance, the music... brought me to tears. There is also a really neat gift shop to buy Catholic gifts. Love my "Lady"bug rosary! ❤🐞

Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi Beautiful grounds and exterior architecture; couldn’t go inside this time, but fully intend to return. The setting alone makes it well worth the visit.

During our family holiday in Santa Fe to visit relatives, we took the opportunity to explore the downtown area and were drawn to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. The Romanesque architecture is stunning, and the interior offers a serene atmosphere that invites reflection. The stained glass windows and religious artwork are truly inspiring. We also appreciated the peaceful prayer garden and the informative plaques that provide insight into the cathedral's rich history. The gift shop offered a variety of meaningful items, adding to the overall experience. This cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or seeking a moment of tranquility in the heart of Santa Fe.​

Beautiful cathedral in downtown Santa Fe. They have a really unique baptismal fountain. Admission is free but donations are encouraged.

The cathedral is a prominent landmark near Santa Fe's historic plaza, and the docents are friendly and eager to share details regarding the restoration process, including the extensive painting and window preparations. Choir concerts seem to occur frequently, and the grounds are tree-lined and peaceful.

The Cathedral is large but calm and quiet. The docents are helpful. The grounds are lovely. There are several architectural time periods represented but all blends well. Has candles available for lighting . Has a small but nice gift shop. Newer but lovely font.

I love that they allow the public to enter this historic cathedral, take photos and videos, and pray. Very accomodating. Donation based. Has candles, and a store inside.

Update September 2024 We had the chance to attend Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis in Santa Fe, NM, and, as always, it was a wonderful experience! The day was sunny and warm and the cathedral grounds were beautiful. The Mass was about 60/40 English and Spanish, an expression of, the local community! So nice... we didn't have the children's choir this time, but the adults sounded just as good! LOL Seriously, the music at the Cathedral is one of the best parts os the Mass. It's obvious the amount of time the music ministry puts in to hone their craft... amazing! The Cathedral is beautiful as well! What a blessing to be able to attend Mass at such an wonderful place!

This Cathedral is absolutely beautiful and I'm so happy we got to see this when visiting Santa Fe. When we visited there was a wedding going on but from what we could see through the viewing window, the cathedral was beautiful. Even the surrounding grounds were super pretty and well maintained. Everything was green and lush. The cathedral has a little gift shop and I found the most beautiful Jesus statue for my Grandma. The price of it was also extremely reasonable.

The biggest hustle of Santa Fe with their $20 parking fee. I had to ask if this was event parking. Plenty of parking when we arrived, but the cost for our short term visit of 1 hr is ridiculous when street parking is very limited and no parking garages in sight. I pray they use those funds to support the community.

Even if you are not Catholic, this is a cool place to check out in Santa Fe. Beautiful art inside (note the doors and the murals inside) and out (particularly the lovely statue of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the first indigenous person canonized as a Catholic saint). Note the two unfinished towers (if it looks a little stumpy, it's because it was supposed to be taller!) It's at the Eastern edge of the old downtown area, so convenient to visit if you are shopping or exploring in Santa Fe. My only thing to note is that since the place is named for St Francis, they need to stock up on his medals in the gift shop!

Is this the most ornate cathedral you'll ever see? No, but I think that's the point. It is lovely, however, and very inspiring. I was actually overcome by the relative simplicity. It evokes the feel of Santa Fe and strikes me as a very local place to go for mass (I missed it, unfortunately). The grounds are lovely, as well. It's definitely worth a visit.

Constructed over a span of 17 years in the 1800s, this beautiful basilica is one of a few exceptional landmarks in downtown Santa Fe. One would be remiss to not at least stroll by or visit for a while.

Saint Francis Cathedral is a must stop whenever we visit Santa Fe. It never gets old, and there always seems to be something new to discover. This time, the choir was practicing. Such a treat to listen to them! The gift shop happened to be open as well. It was my first time browsing their merchandise and I especially loved their collection of cards. Then there is the Labyrinth. Located outside near the entrance, it was built in the style of the one at the great cathedral in Chartres, France. Walking it is absolutely one of my favorite things to do... a calming and meditative time out moment in an otherwise busy day.

This is a gorgeous church inside and out. We actually came at mass time so got to see the procession in. Beautiful statues surround the entire building and we did the untie knot blessing

One of my favorite churches in America & a must visit during Christmas. A architectural marvel. Christmas in Santa fe is magical & part of what makes that happen is being there to hear the bell tower ringing throughout Santa fe. We love to visit here & try to get over there as much as possible. Moi always make a stop here, especially at night after dinner. Just taking a stroll by it's so beautifully lit up at night. You can see all the stars up in the sky above it. Just a magical place indeed. The most incredible thing to do IMO is see/hear the Children's Choir at Christmas in this church. It's such a majestic experience that is truly bucket list worthy. Will Return. Highest Recommendations.

I love the architecture of the old churches and this one does not disappoint. This is the first time I have been to the Santa Fe Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and it was not for a regular service but rather for the 2023 Candlelight Carols program. The chorus was really something, and the acoustics of the old building with its vaulted ceilings was amazing. I am not really a churchgoer but I will admit there is something very peaceful about an old church and this one did not disappoint. The event was wonderful and I would highly recommend it. The tickets for the cheap seats were affordable and there wasn't really a bad seat in the house.

I feel a little silly for giving a star rating to a place of worship, but I'm more than happy to leave a review to let others know just how beautiful this building and the grounds are. There's a small bookshop in the foyer, which is where a lot of people tended to linger...until they realize you're allowed to step into the sanctuary. With beautiful archwork, stained glass windows, and a solemn quietude, the cathedral provides a lovely haven away from the bustle of tourist traffic right outside the doors. Adjoining the cathedral is a lush park (at least it was when I visited this past weekend to enjoy the fall foliage). The guide at the front desk also pointed out the labyrinth right outside the church doors. It's not a 3D labyrinth with walls and hedges, but some flat stonework, along with a placard that explains that all the twists and turns that slowly lead to the center serve as a metaphor for life. The church, the outdoor labyrinth, and all the parks and walkways around the building provides a lovely space for some peace and meditation. Great place to drop in if you're in town!

It's hard to miss the Cathedral since it's right smack in the middle of the historic blocks of Santa Fe and is gorgeous both inside and out.Influenced by the French-born Archbishop Lamy and in dramatic contrast to the surrounding adobe structures, Saint Francis Cathedral was designed in the Romanesque Revival style. During the restoration of 1986, new doors were created, each with ten bronze panels that portray events in the history of the church in Santa Fe. The beautiful stained glass was one of the highlights of the church for us It's not a long visit unless you're visiting it as a religious experience. There is also a gift shop and a garden next to it .

Feels like the whole town is situated around this church, and walking in really grounded me instantly. Always so good seeing men taking their hats off and everyone take a moment in their day to feel closer to God. Like the fountain, grand piano, and how well-kept everything is.

Pretty Cathedral in the old historic old town. Lovely and beautiful stain glass adorn the church. Too bad it's windy and overcast today, can't see the true beauty of the colors from the stain glass today. The gift shop is right up front. The entrance to the door are picturesque. The grate in the baptismal fountain is quite pretty.

If you walk around downtown Santa Fe around the plaza you can't avoid noticing Saint Francis of Assisi Basilica Cathedral. It is built in architectural Romanesque Revival style, it is in great condition and it's a church where they still hold masses. That's why I was only able to peak inside. The church has a beautiful yard in front, with nice sculpture, a park on one side and another courtyard on the other side, toward its back, peaceful and nice to explore. If you want to get away from the crowds, that is the place! I enjoyed sitting on benches in front of it, great people watching. I also got to experience a procession that started at the church, one of these beautiful, unique moments that you feel lucky to be there at the right time, especially as a tourist, it's a privilege to witness that. The cathedral is a landmark in downtown Santa Fe, you can spot wherever you walk in the Plaza. It is beautiful, majestic and fits perfectly in the landscape of buildings of this unique Southwestern city!

This is a beautiful cathedral. Inside, there is art with a very unique style. The day I arrived to Santa Fe, I was walking about and ended up here. There was a free flutes and hand bells concert about to start, so I stayed for that. I enjoyed the labyrinth outside and the statues as well.

I've never been to New Orleans but the grandeur of seeing the cathedral at the end of the plaza is how I envision it must be to see the famous St. Louis Cathedral. It reminded me of that at least, but with a Spanish flair. After seeing chapels back to back (Loretto & San Miguel), this cathedral is like va va voom! It takes the stunning detail of the smaller buildings & elevates it. We just don't have buildings like this anymore.

Beautiful! We just went to see the architecture and the staircase. Pretty amazing. I'm glad we took the time to go.

It's quite extraordinary! It's a place every visitor to Santa Fe should visit, regardless of your spiritual world view. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, commonly known as Saint Francis Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic cathedral in downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico. It is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe.

This magnificent structure, a beautiful historical landmark, a site of creative beauty, a sanctuary of Catholicism and a place of awe and meditation regardless of one's convictions is a must visit when in Santa Fe. Its origins, which began in 1626, then rebuilt in the 1700s, is astounding and profound. The present structure's birth dates from 1869 is a must visit for history buffs like me. From its stunning presence in architecture when viewing from across the street at Cathedral Park, or ascending its stairs, admiring a majestic statue of Father Lami, to its main entry bronze doors, does not put in plain words what will be witnessed once inside its walls. Simply remarkable. The inside is beyond words and must be visited to appreciate. The most compelling offering to me here is the tranquil walk through a fascinating and reflective state of mind when visiting the Prayer Garden, with its fourteen statuaries of the stages leading to Jesus' crucifixion, this tranquil, pensive, green, and lush circular tree laden garden with benches along the way makes you ponder and offers peace of mind. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is a must do when visiting Santa Fe - maybe more than once! Go reflect for a couple of hours, or more!

It almost feel as if the whole town gravitates towards Saint Francis Cathedral. The name Santa Fe means Holy Faith is Spanish and the city's full name as it was founded is La Villa Real de la Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asís ('The Royal Town of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis of Assisi'). It is still in use today and it's open to the public.

Can't believe a Catholic Church woilsbe closed after noon on a Sunday. Actually had a security guard stopping people from gping in.

Pretty Catholic Church in Santa Fe, New Mexico. We were able to explore the inside of the basilica a bit, light a candle, and say a prayer. The pews were blocked off so we could not sit down or kneel. That is okay because we were still able to look around and see the beauty of St. Francis Cathedral!

Trust me, I'm no authority on churches, but I enter them in good faith, you should pardon the expression, to appreciate the architectural detail and the artistry of the iconography. In that spirit, you should pardon the expression, I found this basilica built in 1869 and completed in 1887 an impressive landmark designed in the French Romanesque Revival style. Except for the color of the local limestone blocks that were used in its construction, this building stands in marked contrast to the surrounding adobe structure. St. Francis of Assisi stands proudly in front (photo: http://bit.ly/2wMM3wl) as does St. Kateri, the first canonized Native American (photo: http://bit.ly/2wKX01i). The interior, in particular, the Sanctuary, is gorgeous and enough to make you feel the Holy Spirit, you should pardon the expression. RELATED - Do you know the way to Santa Fe? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2I4mWdq

The attendants of the church where fantastic. There is no cost to ciewthe church. It's and extremely historical site for Santa Fea. With sections if the church being from various points in history this place is very humbling and definshows something withstanding the test of time.

Beautiful basilica, very friendly volunteers and great information on the short tour. 4 different additions over the centuries, learned the brief history of each from our tour guide. Very interesting and some very beautiful and old paintings by a Mexican artist who brought them here in 1700 or 1800s. Jesus in the Garden of Gesthemone is huge, the really big one was not on display, but I understand was painted in Mexico by the same artist, had to be cut in 3 pieces to transport here, and then was sewn back together. Lady Madonna carved in the late 1400s is really something neat to see. The stained glass is from the 1860s, I believe. Gardens are very pretty, some interesting characters in the park to the north, but the entrance which is on the south side of the building is more calm and visitor traffic flows well.

Saint Francis Cathedral is a cathedral dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. It has a beautiful garden, a beautiful rose window and a wall honoring saints of Latin America and Americas. The problem was that we could only see one sixth of the church due to the construction. This was one of the churches that we wanted to see. Unfortunately, the time we chose to go, the cathedral was under major construction. Even one of the church ladies answering questions complained to her superiors about the construction. You could only the church from the entrance. And you could walk to the side of the cathedral to view a sixth of the cathedral from the The rose window was a beautiful stained glass piece that you could view partially. The wall dedicated to the various saints of North and Latin America looked amazing. The few that we could see were very interesting. But we could not view half the wall due to construction. The garden is filled with the Catholic stations. This was amazing life-size metal sculptures of a worn older Jesus. Jesus on the cross, falling, being whipped and crucified. I would recommend calling the cathedral and returning when construction is complete.

The Saint Francis Cathedral is beautiful and the epicenter of the oldest city in the country. Yes, long before the English began to settle in America the Spanish had already gotten started. They got started by building this cathedral and it's wild to think of what these walls have seen. It's a beautiful place to visit and I highly recommend it. I've attached some pictures I took but they hardly do it justice.

it one of the best places to go on Christmas Eve for midnight mass or any mass for that matter it's not excessively big so no crowds and it's awe-inspiring and comfortable simultaneously.

I have to start by saying we did not attend mass here, we just came to admire it's architectural beauty. This cathedral is so picturesque and a must see when in Santa Fe. Take pictures out front, and then go inside to admire it's beauty and essence. For more on what to do when in Santa Fe, check out our blog. https://kasventures.org/2019/09/16/one-day-in-santa-fe/

Checked out Saint Francis Cathedral was a nice church on Santa Fe NM. FREE with donation box if you want to. Nice inside. I liked it.

Our 1st stop in historic downtown Santa Fe begins with a Chapel of history and beauty. pictures welcome, no flashes, silence phones and guys take off your hats. Respect the fact that your in a place of worship not just a tourist attraction. No Pets. Take all this in no matter your religion. Its the history and beauty. do not forget the Garden Walk in the back. its incredible. Bathrooms here open for Mass only. $1 for candle dedications. See you down the road....

I came here twice during my short visit to Santa Fe. I was drawn into this place and couldn't leave for a while. First day, since the church was closed to public (they are closed on Sunday), I went to the stations of the cross prayer garden. They have so many statuses of Jesus with his life history, staring from baptism by John. All the status was so realistic, I just lost words completely, even forgot to take pictures, stood there silently. "Why?" was my initial thought, a lot of thought went through my head. Next morning I came a few minutes before the church opened so I came to the garden again. I wanted to take pictures without anyone in it, so I stood by the door for a few minutes to be the first person to enter the cathedral. Inside was beautiful but with more so realistic Jesus' statues throughout. I liked their baptism pool in the middle. I visited several cathedral not too long ago in Europe. All the churches/cathedral is nothing like here. It's just different. I like them both, they are just different. I thought I came in to take pictures but I spent more time sitting there. For some reasons I felt so calm and peaceful sitting at this church than any other churches I visited around the world.

Saint Francis Cathedral is an amazing and spiritual place. A must stop if you're in Santa Fe, if only for the iconography. I've been here either five or six times and they're always seems to have a wedding or another event going on. If there is, just go next door and visit the little Loretto Chapel and come back later. It's worth the wait. One time, I walked past the gift shop and made it half way up the side aisle until I was asked if I was one the Bride's or Groom's side? No joke. I was escorted out. But, the ushers were very friendly about it. LOL Yes, it's a popular church. And a beautiful one as well.

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, commonly known as Saint Francis Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic cathedral in downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico. It is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. Side Note: During our visit we did not visit the interior of the building due to mass being held. The courtyard/entrance area is breathtaking. The church is located in the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Plenty of shopping and restaurants in the area.

I write this not only as a catholic but as a lover of architecture. This is the most beautiful cathedral I have ever been to. The stained glass windows are vibrant and abundant. Everything in here is gorgeous. It is an absolute must see if you're in Santa Fe.

It feels weird to review a church, but since it is really an architectural piece of beauty (and more if you are Catholic) I suppose it is fair game! This Cathedral sits just a couple blocks off the Plaza in Santa Fe. You can see it for blocks and it sort of pulls you in. There are beautiful statues in the courtyard, a nice gift shop (as you walk in) and the church itself has tons of stained glass. It really is a moving place to visit -- even if you aren't religious. A must see in Santa Fe!

Soul moving experience.... Pictures cannot do this justice. You have to see for yourself. The basilica is so beautiful! I lost myself in paintings and architecture, in the stained glass windows and carvings, in the sheer magnitude of the beauty and religious notes of this majestic structure! I am in awe of the well preserved artifacts dating back to the 1600s!!! I have posted photos and a videos. Like I said, they just don't do it justice. You have to come see for yourself! I can't wait to come back!

The Cathedral is the epitomy of Santa Fe. Standing there with its massive pillars in the center of the plaza. I would definitely encourage non-Catholics to visit as there is so much history and architecture behind this place, statues, benches to sit outside. Even better if you are able to attend mass or a ceremony while the archbishop is present. And as other reviews state, you're right, pictures don't really do it justice

Just like the lyrics from the song in "Top Gun," the St. Francis Cathedral, took my breath away...aaaaahaaaa. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it had a Southwestern/Native American charm to it. The outside of the cathedral is similar to some that I saw in Paris. Inside, is where you experience the charm. I enjoyed looking at the art of the sacrifice of Jesus. Nothing like I've seen before, the usual European style. It was outstanding. Santa Fe has a treasure and for sure a must see for tourist. Even if you aren't religious, the building itself is something to see.

Beautiful, serene. Lovely landscaping and displays out front. Ornate inside. A must see in Santa Fe.

Beautiful 400 year old building and one of the oldest in the New World. Dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, this site is a place of serenity, beauty, simplicity, and the glory of god. There are a number of chapels inside and the stained glass windows are truly works of art. The gardens are well kept. If you are visiting Santa Fe, put this on your must see list - take a few minutes to sit in silence and then walk around a bit. You will see some inspirational works -- even if you are not Catholic.

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (aka Saint Francis Cathedral) is in downtown Santa Fe and in many ways centers it. I'm always in the mood to enter a spiritual place, which I most recently did during our trip to Northern New Mexico a few months ago. I love the architecture both inside and out. What particularly struck me inside was the alter area, a really life-like Jesus on the cross to the left, the stunning stained glass windows, and what I'll call the baptism pool in the center. We weren't there during a service, but since there are always folks here to pray, so I try really hard to not disturb their meditations. Better yet, I sat down myself and tried to briefly center my existence a bit. The quiet spirituality easily flows through this place. Don't forget to visit the Loretto Chapel next door.

I know how fortunate I am to be able to travel foreign and domestic. So I made it a point to stop in to give thanks and praise. Few things about this place that made it special. It's the first church that I've visited that has a statue honoring the first Native Indian to be recognized as a Saint by the Catholic Church. I learned about her years ago at an Indian reservation and have offered her thanks and praise. She was known as Lily of the Mohawks. She was baptized as Catherine but will also see her name as Saint Kateri Tekakwitha. I've been pronouncing her name wrong for 10 yrs. Phonetically its "Gaderi Dega'gwita" in Mohawk. She lived in the 1600's. When you drive up the main road in Downtown Santa Fe this Basilica is located at the very end where the road forks. Turn right and on the left is parking for the church. This high ceiling cathedral church was built in 1610 the same year Santa Fe was founded. How cool is that?! Sweet! Seven archbishops are buried in the sanctuary. So this church is named after the Patron Saint Francis of Assisi. The Saint of the Environment and animals! Love it! The stained glass of the 12 apostles is from France. Inside there's holy water with nice tiles and a small area off to the right to offer candles. The entrance doors are heavy and decorated with well detailed metal, steel or wooden panels. Not sure of the material used but it's lovely work. Standing at the top of the steps from the street gives you a nice view of Downtown Santa Fe. I couldn't help but feel extra grateful to be standing there. I felt like Rocky but in Santa Fe. Instead of raising my hands in victory. I raised my cell phone for a cheesy selfie. Woop woop! Santa Fe! Basilica St. Francis of Assisi & Saint Lily of the Mohawks!

I love the architecture of this church it's beautiful inside. The outside is beautiful also. There is no restroom except when there is mass going on. The closest restroom is down the street about a block away. It's only a block away from the loretto chapel. Both are a must-see in Santa Fe if you're in the area. Every corner of this cathedral is a work of art. I cannot imagine the work that went into building this place.