Try the Web App

Saint James Cathedral

Discover cities like never before.

Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.

Try the Web App

Why would a church sell its land to the U.S. Treasury Department? You might be surprised to learn that Saint James Cathedral, right here in front of us, did just that during the Great Depression. The history of Saint James Cathedral goes back to 1881. That’s when Bishop John Moore, recognizing the need for a Catholic presence in a rapidly growing Orlando, purchased land for $1050.00. This land, where we stand today, was originally bordered by Orange Avenue, Robinson Street, Magnolia Avenue, and Jefferson Street. The first church, a charming wooden structure, was completed in 1891. However, the congregation thrived and outgrew the space, leading to the construction of the current building, which was dedicated in 1952. Sadly, a devastating fire ravaged St. Charles Borromeo Church in 1976, leading to the transfer of the cathedral title to St. James in 1977. Today, Saint James Cathedral stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Catholic community in Orlando. It serves as a beacon of hope and a place for gathering and reflection in the heart of the city.

The story of Saint James Cathedral in Orlando is just one of many fascinating insights you can discover with Explory. To experience the city beyond its surface, you need more than just a map – you need a smart guide that reveals the background, the culture, and the character of each place. With Explory’s city guide, you can dive deeper into Orlando and transform your visit into a unique city tour filled with stories that bring history and everyday life to light. Explory connects you with Orlando in a new way. Our guide doesn’t just show you where to go – it enriches your journey with context and atmosphere. Through carefully designed routes and storytelling, you’ll uncover hidden gems and unexpected highlights that even locals might miss. The audio guide makes the city come alive, allowing you to listen while you walk and explore at your own pace. Our city guide is ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Whether your interest is culture, architecture, or local traditions, Explory enables authentic exploration. Each city tour is flexible and intuitive, helping you experience Orlando with freedom while still being guided by expert knowledge. By combining narrative, navigation, and discovery, Explory ensures your trip becomes an adventure filled with hidden gems and lasting impressions. Take the next step and download the Explory App today. Inside, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories to explore. Whether you’re searching for a reliable guide, want to try an immersive audio guide, or plan a memorable city tour, Explory is your all-in-one companion. Begin your journey now and uncover the true essence of Orlando – only with Explory.

More Places in Orlando

Chuluota

Is this the “Isle of Pines”? That’s what the name “Chuluota” means, you know. It’s a derivative of the Creek

Explore

Geneva

Is it a coincidence that Geneva, Florida, shares its name with a city known for its international organizations? Geneva, Florida

Explore

Mount Plymouth

You’ve probably heard of Al Capone. But did you know that Mount Plymouth was rumored to have been a hideaway

Explore