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Five Best Catholic Churches to Visit in St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri, is known for its diverse cultural, historical, and architectural sites. A standout feature is its notable Archdiocese and gorgeous Catholic churches.

Historically, St. Louis' commitment to the Catholic vision and prolific number of churches has given the city its nickname "Rome of the West." The city has a mix of modern cathedrals and historic churches known for their historical, as well as cultural significance. For those interested in architecture or the history of St. Louis, these churches are top places to visit.

From majestic cathedrals adorned with stunning mosaics to historic churches that have witnessed the city's growth, here's an exploration of the must-visit Catholic sanctuaries in St. Louis.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis: The New Cathedral

At the heart of St. Louis's Central West End stands the breathtaking Cathedral Basilica. It's a testament to the city's artistic spirit, with over 83,000 square feet of its interior adorned with intricate mosaics that tell stories from the Bible, lives of saints, and tales from the history of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. It is the largest collection of mosaics in the world. Where ordinarily this art would be painted, in the Basilica, it's all done with mosaic tile.

The Cathedral offers guided tours to view one of the most extensive mosaics in the world and learn about the rich catholic history of St. Louis, in addition to regular masses presided by the Archbishop.

Shrine of St. Joseph

Constructed in Downtown St. Louis in the mid-1800s, the Shrine of St. Joseph served the local German immigrant community. This church is particularly notable for being the site of the only Vatican-authenticated miracle in the Midwest.

The church exhibits a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. Its detailed golden altars and the opulent stained glass windows, which depict biblical events and stories of saints, stand as a testament to the era's craftsmanship.

Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Church

Established in 1849, St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church has always been devoted to serving and promoting the local Soulard community. Its commitment to the community is evident in its outreach programs and its role in significant local festivities. The folklore goes that as the Irish population that had been attending St. Vincent DePaul grew, they wanted their own church, so they built St. Peter and Paul.

Its tall spires, pointed arches, and detailed stone masonry are indicative of European-inspired designs prevalent in 19th century cathedral architecture. The church is adorned with beautifully crafted stained glass windows, woodwork, and altars that provide a serene space for reflection and worship. It is one of the few churches that still offers a full Latin Mass.

St. Cecelia’s Catholic Church

St. Cecilia Catholic Church, situated in the bustling city of St. Louis, vividly represents architectural charm and vibrant community life. The church's patron saint, St. Cecilia, the patroness of musicians, imbues the locale with a sense of harmony and devotion.

A walk into St. Cecilia's reveals its standout design. The vibrant colors and intricate details of its Mexican Baroque style present a delightful contrast to the more traditional Gothic and Romanesque churches that were so common in the city's landscape at that time.

St. Francis Xavier SLU College Church

Located on the grounds of Saint Louis University, St. Francis Xavier Church, commonly referred to as the College Church, binds together faith, history, and education in St. Louis. This church stands in the Jesuit tradition, combining knowledge and faith to empower the surrounding community.

St. Francis Xavier is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture, a style marked by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The church is home to a series of impressive stained glass windows, oak woodwork, marble and brass accents that add to the ambiance of serenity and reverence.

Stop By Lehmann House For Your Next Visit to the Rome of the West

The gorgeous architecture and rich catholic tradition of St. Louis' archdiocese has made St. Louis the 'Rome of the West' amongst the catholic world. This Midwestern city is one of the best places to see modern engagement of the catholic faith.

If you plan on visiting some of the Catholic churches and cathedrals across St. Louis for mass or a tour, there's no better place to stay than Lehmann House Bed and Breakfast in Lafayette Square.

Located minutes away from all the major churches in St. Louis, Lehmann House stands as a testament to the cultural and architectural significance of the region. If you're interested in learning more about places to visit in St. Louis, contact us today or book now to start your next retreat to the Rome of the West.

Written by Creative Copywriter Chris Davies