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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Religious sites

The Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle rectory and campus

A historic Catholic cathedral in downtown Washington, D.C., serving as the seat of the archbishop and a renowned site for prayer and national significance.

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The Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle rectory and campus
www.stmatthewscathedral.org, og_image_www.stmatthewscathedral.org

What is the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle known for?

It is a Catholic cathedral and the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, serving as the seat of the archbishop. It is one of the oldest and most renowned churches in the United States, having been a central part of Washington, D.C. for over 150 years.

What are the visiting hours?

The cathedral is open Sunday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

What are the rectory office hours?

The rectory office is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where is it located?

The cathedral and rectory are located at 1725 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036, just off the intersection of Connecticut Avenue, Rhode Island Avenue, and M Street Northwest.

Is it accessible for people who use sign language?

Yes, sign-language interpreters are provided at the 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass and at special liturgies as announced.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle is a prominent Catholic cathedral located in downtown Washington, D.C. It serves as the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington and the seat of the archbishop. The site has been a central part of the city for more than 150 years, and as a combined cathedral and rectory, it has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. Architecturally, the building is designed by C. Grant La Farge in the Romanesque Revival style with Byzantine elements. The structure is built of red brick with sandstone and terra cotta trim, and its layout is shaped as a Latin cross, providing seating for approximately 1,200 people. Beyond its religious significance, the cathedral has hosted national events of great historical weight. In 1963, it was the site of a requiem Mass for President John F. Kennedy, the only president of the United States to be a member of the Catholic Church. Visitors are welcome to all for prayer, service, and worship. The cathedral is open daily, with hours varying slightly by day of the week, and provides accessibility features such as sign-language interpreters for the 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass and special liturgies.

Visitor tips

  • The rectory office is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. if you need administrative assistance.
  • If you are looking for a Mass, the 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass is provided with sign-language interpreters.
  • Allow time to explore the interior sanctuary, as the cathedral is open to all visitors for prayer and worship.

Nearby context

Located at 1725 Rhode Island Ave NW, the cathedral is situated just off the intersection of Connecticut Avenue, Rhode Island Avenue, and M Street Northwest, placing it in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C.

Sources

Evidence and links