St. John's Anglican Cathedral has two 70-foot (21-meter) towers, which serve as distinctive landmarks of the island, being the first structures that people see when approaching Antigua by boat. While the view is impressive to some, the sight of the towers once struck fear into the hearts of enslaved people who were arriving, as it reminded them of the oppressive power of the British who ruled over Antigua.
Inside the church are the famed bronze statues of two saints: St. John the Baptist and the one whom the church was named after, St. John the Divine. The stoic, European look of the cathedral is a unique departure from the relaxed ocean vibe of this Caribbean island. Guided cultural tours of Antigua typically include a stop at the cathedral.
St. John's Cathedral is located on the western end of Antigua, about a 15-minute drive from the airport. The cathedral is within walking distance of most of the historical attractions of the island. It is also close to the two main bus stations, the West bus station opposite the public market, and the East bus station on Independence Avenue.
Mass and prayer services are held throughout the week in both the mornings and evenings; check the cathedral website for times. Overall, you’ll encounter the biggest crowds from December to February, as this is peak tourist season in Antigua. For an authentic island experience, visit during Antigua’s Carnival, which takes place from late July to early August. The 13-day event features parades, pageants, concerts, and more, attracting plenty of locals and visitors.
Less than a 5-minute walk from the cathedral, the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, set in the former St. John’s Courthouse, recounts the history of this twin-island nation, from its geological beginnings to its political independence from Britain. It also has a small gift shop selling work by local artists.