Cathedral of Saint Augustine

In the heart of Tucson, Arizona, the Cathedral of Saint Augustine stands as a beacon of historical and architectural splendor. Serving as the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson, this magnificent structure not only offers a place of worship but also a journey through time, reflecting the rich tapestry of Tucson’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

The Historical Tapestry

The roots of the Cathedral of Saint Augustine trace back to the late 18th century with the establishment of the Royal Presidio of San Agustin in 1776. This early chapel laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the cathedral. By the mid-19th century, the original Presidio chapel had fallen into disuse, prompting Father Joseph Machebeuf to recommend the assignment of a priest to the area. In the 1860s, Father Donato Rogieri arrived in Tucson, then a small village of adobe homes, and began the arduous task of building a new church with the help of his parishioners.

By 1868, under the guidance of Father Jean B. Salpointe, the new church was completed. This initial structure, often referred to as a cathedral even then, marked the beginning of a new era for Tucson’s Catholic community. The Holy See declared Arizona an apostolic vicariate that same year, and Salpointe was appointed Vicar Apostolic.

The turn of the century saw significant changes under Bishop Peter Bourgade, who initiated the rebuilding of the church in 1897. Although the original plans called for a Gothic-style structure, the spires were never completed. The most transformative change came in 1928 when the cathedral was redesigned in a stunning Mexican baroque style, inspired by the Cathedral of Querétaro in Mexico. This redesign included the elaborate cast stone façade that is now a hallmark of the cathedral’s exterior.

Architectural Marvels

The Cathedral of Saint Augustine is a masterpiece of architectural design, blending elements of Mexican baroque with local influences. The façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings, features the coat of arms of Pope Pius XI, who was the pope during the building’s construction. The stonework also incorporates indigenous desert plants such as yucca and saguaro blossoms, paying homage to the local flora. A representation of the Mission San Xavier del Bac is also included, connecting the cathedral to the broader history of Catholic missions in the region.

Inside the cathedral, visitors are greeted by a large 12th- or 13th-century crucifix carved in Pamplona, Spain, hanging in the vestibule. The cathedral’s floor is set on a slight grade, ensuring that the main altar is visible to the entire congregation. With seating for up to 1,250 people, the cathedral can accommodate large gatherings for worship and special events.

The Splendor Within

The interior of the cathedral underwent a significant restoration project beginning in 1966 and completed in 1968, coinciding with the centenary anniversary of the original church’s completion. This project involved the complete demolition and rebuilding of the cathedral, with the exception of its façade and towers. More recently, under the leadership of artist and historic preservationist John Alan, the cathedral has undergone further enhancements to create a more inviting and sacred space. Trompe l'oeil painting and ornamental art have been used extensively to enhance the interior’s beauty.

One of the most striking features inside the cathedral is the Pamplona Crucifix, a 600-year-old carving from Spain. Standing at 17 feet tall and weighing 2,000 pounds, this crucifix was a special gift to the cathedral and has been carefully preserved and enhanced. It now rests on the back wall of the sanctuary behind the altar, serving as a focal point for worship.

The stained-glass windows have also been refreshed, with the upper levels depicting the apostles and the first four bishops of Tucson, while the lower levels follow the history of Saint Augustine. The side altars, or retablos, are handcrafted from wood and honor the Blessed Sacrament Chapel and Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine.

Modern Enhancements

In addition to aesthetic improvements, the cathedral has received updates in lighting and sound technology, ensuring that services are both visually and audibly enhanced. The pews have been redesigned to reflect the style of the original 1897 seating, and the tile flooring has been revamped to complement the overall design.

On the exterior, the cathedral’s once white walls have been painted a warm beige, and the nearly century-old statues of the Immaculate Conception and the Sacred Heart of Jesus have been meticulously restored. These updates, along with repairs to the roof and other structural elements, were completed over a two-year period, culminating in a re-dedication mass led by the Bishop of Tucson, Gerald Kicanas, on February 12, 2011.

With a total renovation cost exceeding $1 million, generously donated by members of the diocese, the Cathedral of Saint Augustine stands today as a testament to the enduring faith and dedication of Tucson’s Catholic community. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to this magnificent cathedral promises an enriching and inspiring experience.