San Franciscos Most Beautiful Cathedrals And Churches

San Francisco’s cathedrals and churches are as awe-inspiring as the city which they call home. From regal Gothic Revival stone temples to soaring golden onion domes, San Francisco’s cathedrals and churches draw from old world architectural traditions to convey unique San Franciscan sensibilities. Often hidden in residential neighborhoods, the following buildings offer visitors a rich understanding of the many cultures that make up this diverse west coast city.

Grace Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

City view beautiful serene sunset in iconic city of San Francisco United States California, classical architecture and modern buildings city park view

Located in San Francisco’s elegant Nob Hill, Grace Cathedral is California’s Episcopal cathedral. Although completed in 1964, its Gothic Revival style lends it an old-world aura. In addition to its two labyrinths and mosaic murals depicting San Francisco history, Grace Cathedral often houses art installations. Guided tours of the cathedral and its history are offered regularly. You can also enjoy the soaring beauty of this cathedral’s Gothic architecture by participating in Yoga on the Labyrinth or taking in one of the concerts held within.

Holy Virgin Cathedral

Building, Cathedral

Holy Virgin Cathedral‘s golden onion domes rise above the pastel houses of San Francisco’s Richmond neighborhood. The cathedral is the largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside of Russia. The building was designed by Oleg N. Ivanitsky. Inspired by traditional Russian architectural styles, the cathedral’s distinct onion domes are covered in gold leaf. Likewise, its interior sparkles with rich mosaics and gilt paintings of idols and religious scenes.

St. Patrick Church

Building, Church

St. Patricks Catholic Church, San Francisco

St. Patrick Church is a time capsule nestled in the sleek new SoMa neighborhood. Founded in 1851, this Roman Catholic church’s cornerstones were imported from Ireland. The church’s Irish roots are also evident in the building’s stained glass. St. Patrick Church has undergone extensive renovations; it was renovated after the 1906 earthquake and more recently during the Yerba Buena district renovation. Its humble brick façade houses a dramatic, Gothic-Revival interior that creates a tranquil refuge in the heart of the city.

Saints Peter and Paul Church

Cathedral, Church

Saints Peter and Paul Church, often called the ‘Italian Cathedral of the West,’ is located in North Beach’s Washington Square. With its intricately decorated twin spires, Saints Peter and Paul Church has appeared in several movies, including Dirty Harry, Deadpool, and Sister Act 2. The church’s bright interior takes inspiration from Italian Gothic styles and features exquisite ecclesiastical artworks.

Saint Ignatius Church

Church, University

The present Saint Ignatius Church, part of the University of San Francisco, was built in 1914. It is the fifth iteration of the church in San Francisco and one of the city’s largest churches. Saint Ignatius mixes Italian and Spanish Baroque elements to produce one of San Francisco’s most beautiful churches. Inside Saint Ignatius Church, the floor plan is based on the ancient Roman Basilica, and many of its decorative motifs feature ancient allegories. In addition, within the church you can find the Manresa Gallery, a fine arts gallery which features Bay Area artists.