St. James Cathedral

Overview

St. James Cathedral is an 1853 Gothic Revival church in the heart of old Toronto. Its 93 m spire was the tallest structure in Canada for decades, and the interior features Victorian stained glass and a Casavant Frères organ.

Highlights

• Spire: 93 m — the tallest church spire in Canada.
• Stained glass: Windows by English and German studios dating to the 1850s.
• Clock tower: A four-faced clock visible across the Old Town district.

History

The current building is the fourth on the site; its cornerstone was laid in 1850 after a devastating fire.

Visitor Tips

• Noonday recitals: Free organ recitals most Tuesdays at 13:00.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.