Cathedral of Saint Mary | St Cloud

Information

Landmark: Cathedral of Saint Mary
City: St Cloud
Country: USA Minnesota
Continent: North America

Cathedral of Saint Mary, St Cloud, USA Minnesota, North America

The Cathedral of Saint Mary is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA.

This religious structure serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saint Cloud.

Visual Characteristics

The cathedral is constructed primarily of granite and limestone. Its exterior features a prominent central tower topped with a copper-clad dome. The architectural style is predominantly Beaux-Arts, characterized by its symmetrical design, classical ornamentation, and grand scale. The main facade includes large arched windows and decorative stonework.

Location & Access Logistics

The cathedral is situated at 25 Second Avenue North, St. Cloud, MN 56303. It is approximately 0.5km west of the St. Cloud city center. On-site parking is available in a dedicated lot adjacent to the building. Public transport options include Metro Bus routes that stop within a 0.2km radius of the cathedral on Division Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Cathedral of Saint Mary began in 1914 and was completed in 1921. The architect was Edward J. Schulte of Cincinnati, Ohio. The original purpose was to serve as the principal church for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saint Cloud, replacing an earlier, smaller structure.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the interior architecture, including stained-glass windows and decorative murals. The cathedral hosts regular religious services. Self-guided tours of the main sanctuary are permitted during non-service hours. The grounds offer space for quiet contemplation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the cathedral. Limited shaded areas are present on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this urban location. No on-site food vendors are present, but dining establishments are located within a 0.5km radius.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal interior lighting and photography, visiting during midday hours (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM) when sunlight enters through the windows is recommended. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, offering milder weather conditions for accessing the site.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the cathedral's cornerstone was laid by Bishop Joseph F. Busch on May 17, 1914. The design was influenced by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, though on a smaller scale.