The elegant clock tower of the Italian Renaissance-style Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament rises 215 feet (65metres) over Cathedral Square. Regardless of your religion, appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and historic significance of this inner-city sanctuary.
Step inside to bask in the grandeur of this active house of worship. Find a quiet spot to light a candle and say a prayer, take a seat to contemplate life or simply admire the architecture and artworks of this grand building.
The octagonal marble baptismal font at the entrance has a detailed decorative mosaic. Look up to see the original dome, which was reopened in 2005 after being closed for 70 years. A massive crucifix hangs above the main altar as a focal point for worshippers. Stained-glass window paintings represent biblical passages and cast an ethereal light over the interior. Two side chapels feature large religious murals. Listen to the excellent tones from the Reuter organ installed during renovation.
Learn about the cathedral’s history. Construction began in 1887. It was commissioned by Patrick Manogue, an Irish prospector who arrived in Sacramento during the Californian Gold Rush. After joining a seminary in Paris, where he visited l’Église de la Trinité, he returned to Sacramento as a priest to create a similar church, which was for years the largest west of the Mississippi.
Visit the gift shop on Sunday or Monday to purchase crucifixes, figurines and other religious trinkets. Surrounding street parking is metered during business hours but openings can be hard to find. Another option is the nearby 9th Street parking garage between L and K streets.
The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is near the California State Capitol Building, a short stroll from pedestrianized K Street Mall in downtown Sacramento. Admission is free. Masses are held in English daily, with Chinese and Spanish services on Sundays as well. Although the pews can seat 1,400 people, they tend to fill quickly during holiday Masses. Join a free guided tour after morning Mass on Wednesday or Sunday or listen to the self-guided audio tour from the parish website on your phone or tablet.
