Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

WOW, the cathedral is beautiful beyond words. We typically visit when we are in town even though I have visited multiple times. I just feel so many emotions when I sit inside this cathedral and look around. A must see!!!

The oldest cathedral in the United States! Such a beautiful historic site. The stained glass and the statues are incredible to admire. The cathedral itself is peaceful, a nice change from the rest of busy Old San Juan. Also, it is free to enter although donations are encouraged.

A must-visit in San Juan is Catedral Basilica Menor de. It's free. I love the atmosphere and vibe within the church, but I'm in love with Linda, the cat that the church authorities rescued during Hurricane Maria.

We were in San Juan again with Royal Caribbean. We had been to the cathedral before, and I really wanted to see it again. We walked, or I walked and my wife powered up the hill on her power wheelchair. It is a hike, but very neat if you can make it. It is about a mile and a half from the cruise port, all uphill. Not so bad but not easy either. Some tours will drop you at the top of the hill at the old fort, and you can walk back through old San Juan downhill. I was disappointed that I could not find a ramp to get my wife in, but I was glad to pop in and see this wonderful place again. If you are an early bird like we are, you won’t find much open, like restaurants, until later.

A visit to this site is a must if you're in the Old San Juan area. Here lies the tomb of Juan Ponce de León, the famous Spanish explorer and first governor of Puerto Rico. The church also houses a fascinating Vatican relic—a preserved mummy, which adds a unique and historical touch to the experience. This landmark is steeped in history, making it a meaningful stop for anyone interested in Puerto Rican heritage and colonial-era architecture.

If you love history and Catholic statues, this is a must see!

500 year old ,very Beautiful, Father was very nice to talk with.

Visiting the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista feels like stepping into a living piece of history. Nestled in the heart of Old San Juan, this magnificent cathedral is one of the oldest in the Americas, and its grandeur is a testament to centuries of faith, art, and culture. The moment you approach, the cathedral's elegant facade captivates you with its blend of Gothic and Neoclassical architecture. The weathered stones and graceful arches tell stories of the past, inviting you to explore further. As you step inside, you're greeted by a serene and awe-inspiring interior. The soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and ornate altars create an atmosphere of reverence and tranquility. Each chapel within the cathedral holds its own treasures—statues of saints carved with meticulous detail, paintings that have survived the test of time, and the tomb of the renowned explorer Juan Ponce de León. The gentle play of light filtering through the stained glass bathes the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, enhancing the sacred ambiance. What makes this cathedral truly special is not just its architectural beauty but the palpable sense of history and spirituality that envelops you. Whether you're attending a mass, listening to the ethereal notes of the organ, or simply sitting in quiet contemplation, you can't help but feel connected to something greater. The cathedral's location adds to its charm. After your visit, you can stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, exploring nearby plazas, cafes, and shops, all while the echoes of the cathedral's bells linger in the background. In a world that often rushes by, the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista offers a peaceful retreat where time seems to stand still. It's a must-visit destination that leaves you with a renewed appreciation for history, faith, and the enduring beauty of human craftsmanship. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Puerto Rico—this is a place where memories are not just made but cherished.