The seat of the Archbishop of Saint Andrews and Edinburgh, this Roman Catholic cathedral serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese and stands as a category B listed building in Edinburgh’s New Town.
At a glance
St Mary’s Metropolitan Cathedral, formally known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is the principal Catholic church for the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh. Located on Broughton Street in the East End of the New Town, it occupies a significant position in Scotland’s ecclesiastical landscape.
History
The cathedral functions as the official seat of the Archbishop and represents the spiritual centre of the Catholic community across the archdiocese. Its designation as a category B listed building reflects its architectural and historical importance within Edinburgh’s urban fabric.
What you see
Situated between York Place and Leith Street, the cathedral occupies a prominent location within the carefully planned Georgian district of the New Town. Its listed status indicates architectural merit worthy of statutory protection and preservation.
Cultural significance
As the mother church of the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh, the cathedral holds deep spiritual significance for Catholic believers across the region. Its role as the Archbishop’s seat underscores its importance within Scotland’s religious heritage and the broader Scottish ecclesiastical community.
Key facts
- Country: United Kingdom
- City: Edinburgh
- Coordinates: 55.9561, -3.1877
- Listed status: Category B listed building
Practical information & getting there
The cathedral is located on Broughton Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, between York Place and Leith Street in the city centre. For current visiting hours and details on services, consult the cathedral directly or the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh website.
Sources & resources
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