The 19 best churches in San Juan

Breathtaking. Solemn. Beautiful. Its one of North America's oldest church built in the 1600's. Catedral de San Juan is 500 years old. Its the highlight of our frequent visit at Old San Juan.

Beautiful Church and history shared at the entrance. We bought a souvenir and the lady suggested that the Priest can blessed our purchase. The Priest did it without hesitation. We felt so blessed that day. ☺️ There's restaurants near the Basilica.

Beautiful Mass and Special Cathedral and Basilica. Ponce De leon is buried here. Also, major relics for Blessed Carlos Manuel Rodriquez and Saint Pius (1st century Rome).

Nice little place to look at the craftsmanship it’s free to go to but they would like donations. It worth stopping and looking at it.

Catedral de San Juan Bautista is a must-see while in Old San Juan. The tranquill atmosphere and stunning architecture are captivating. It's a serene place to both admire the beautiful stained glass windows and feel the weight of its long history, particularly when visiting the tomb of Juan Ponce de León. The cathedral is an active place of worship but is very welcoming to visitors, making it a perfect, quick stop during a walk through the city.

Worth seeing. Second oldest basilica in the western hemisphere. They are restoring it as funds allow. Free entry, donation recommended($3). Also has a small gift shop where I bought a lovely rosary, and I am not Catholic!

Beautiful church to attend Sunday mass in San Juan! The mass was in Spanish, but the homily was in both languages. Definitely come and visit to say some prayers when visiting VSJ!

Beautiful church with lots of history Ponce de Leon is buried there !

This chapel was built between 1753 and 1780, Tucked away in the corner of the old walled city of San Juan is a tiny chapel. It was built on top of the ancient stone walls that protected Puerto Rico’s capital in 1753 to celebrate a miracle. Since then, tens of thousands of faithful visitors have come to this humble chapel to pray for cures. it is near to famous La Fortaleza street. As stated by guide - It is said, that in the year 1750 Cristo Street was host to a horse race where one of the participants could not stop his horse and fell off the cliff. The Secretary of Government at the time, Don Tomás Mateo Prats is said to have invoked the Santo Cristo de la Salud and that the young man who fell off the cliff was saved. And so, the Secretary of Government ordered the construction of the chapel on sight to honor the miracle. It was later revealed that the young man died, but still, this chapel has a distinctly spiritual feel to it. How to better start your journey than in this miracle sight!

This was a beautiful place to stop for pictures. I really appreciate the Spanish architecture of the chapel. Built in the 1800s, it's younger than a lot of the other landmarks but it looks just as old.

This chapel nestled in the streets of old San Juan is a mandatory stop since it is located next to the Parque de las Palomas. It is very old, small and cozy in plain sight, with its virgins and crucifixes.

Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud. Chapel of Holy Christ of Health. This information below was used from a Google search I did for this Chapel. As the story goes, during the San Juan Bautista celebrations of 1753 a rider, Baltazar Montanez, lost control of his horse and plunged to the cliffs below. The Spanish Secretary of Government Don Mateo Pratts was watching the drama unfold from a nearby balcony, and allegedly cried out, “Christ of Good Health, save him!” Though the horse didn’t survive the fall, the young rider did. Tucked away in the corner of the old walled city of San Juan is a tiny chapel, one of the most beautiful and secluded monuments in the old capital. It was built on top of the ancient stone walls that protected Puerto Rico's capital in 1753 to celebrate a miracle. Since then, tens of thousands of faithful visitors have come to this humble chapel to pray for cures. That same year, Montanez built the small chapel on the exact spot where he fell over the cliff. The altar was built in shining silver and gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful oil paintings by the famous Puerto Rican artist Jose Campeche. Much of the modestly sized but immaculately appointed chapel hasn’t changed since then. But  over the decades it has been slowly added to by believers who come to the chapel seeking their own miracles. Tiny silver ornaments decorate the chapel, each one representing some ailing part of the body. These small milagros, or miracles, represent a cause of pain for the pilgrims, and take the form of miniature silver legs, arms, hearts, and lungs. Today the church is reverentially cared for by a group of local women, volunteers called “La Hermandad del Santo Cristo de la Salud” (The Sisterhood of the Holy Christ of Health). It is only open on Tuesdays and religious days. This location is right next to the park of El Parque Las Palomas. They are side by side, can't miss this spot. You also have La Casa Estrecha which is located right on the opposite side of the park.

I wasn’t able to go in when I went. However I did see all these pigeons by there. I took pics. It looks really old, and awesome from the outside.

I visited here during my trip to Puerto Rico. During the time CoVid protocols were strict and the chapel was closed. I’d walk by on a daily basis but the gates were locked. Lots of pigeons would frequent the area as it connects to a park in Old San Juan . Hope to see the inside one day

Also known as the Palace of St. Catherine, in honor of St. Catherine of Alexandria. The Executive Mansion is the oldest in continuous use in the New World. It is part of the World Heritage and National Historic Site of San Juan. Without a doubt, a place to visit and visit. With high walls, huge gardens and beautiful views that delight its great splendor as a fortress. Visiting its interior, knowing its history is super interesting.

Visited this popular street during our vacation in San Juan. There was security all around and we could not enter the street during the daytime. 2 days later, we visited in the evening and they let us enter for about 10 mins for a light show. The street looks beautiful with the lights. Area is super crowded and difficult to find street parking. We wish it could be decorated with umbrellas like in the past.

The tour was quite basic; we were only allowed access to the exteriors of the fortress. We were disappointed because we thought we would see the interiors, but apparently that's a luxury reserved only for influencers or public figures.

I didn’t go in but looks really cool from the outside. You can take pics at the top of the hill and then walk down around it for free.

The official residence of the Governor or Puerto Rico. Built between 1533 and 1540 to defend the harbor of San Juan. It is the oldest executive mansion in continuous use in the New World. Listed by UNESCO in 1983 as part of the World Heritage Site. La Fortaleza was captured in 1598 by George Clifford, Earl of Cumberland and in 1625 by General Boudenwijn Hendrick of the Netherlands. In 1898, just before the US invaded Puerto Rico during the Spanish-American War, the last Spanish governor of the island, Ricardo De Ortega, struck a long case clock with his sword, stopping the clock and marking the time at which Spain lost control over Puerto Rico.

Historically Stunning!!! And don't forget to visit the park area, feed the pigeons and grab a nice cold frozen fruit cup from @Cafedelnino

This is so worth the effort to make a reservation (also make sure to bring something to cover shoulders or short skirts)! My guide, Sabrina (I think), was stellar. She knew everything I could think of to ask and more. I could tell she genuinely enjoyed her work, and she was very kind allowing for my note taking and pictures! Not only is this the third (and oldest) of the major forts in San Juan, but after you visit you can also visit the active religious hospice care facility run by a group of nuns that is otherwise inaccessible from the street. Not only is their chapel lovely and their cause worthy to donate to, but they may also take you to their balcony for one of the best views on the island and of the full side of La Fortaleza from above!

During my recent visit to San Juan, Puerto Rico, I was drawn twice to the Church of San José—one of the oldest surviving examples of Gothic-influenced architecture in the Western Hemisphere—only to find the doors closed on both occasions. Unfortunately, no clear information was available regarding its visiting hours or worship schedule, which was particularly frustrating considering the immense historical and spiritual value of this site (no web site nor billboards). It was only on my third attempt that the doors were finally open. As I stepped inside, I was nearly moved to tears. The sacred atmosphere, paired with the subtle elegance of the restoration, left a profound impression on me. Whoever undertook the work of conserving and reviving this church has done a masterful job—carefully revealing the patina of centuries without compromising its authenticity. The lighting enhances its architectural dignity and the serenity of its interior. Historically, the Church of San José is one of the earliest religious structures built under the Spanish Crown in the Americas. Constructed in the 1532s, it was part of the broader ecclesiastical and cultural fabric of the Audiencia of Santo Domingo - Viceroyalty of New Spain. For centuries, it served not only as a place of worship but also as a spiritual anchor for the Spanish elite, clergy, and citizens of San Juan. Its walls have borne witness to centuries of transformation, from Spanish imperial rule to modern-day Puerto Rico. This is not just a church—it is a living monument to the Spanish religious, and architectural legacy of the Caribbean. I sincerely urge the caretakers and local authorities to make its access more transparent. Sharing the schedule and history of this extraordinary site would be a great service to the global community, especially to those seeking a meaningful encounter with the past through faith and beauty.

Small donation gets you in crazy awesome painting & architech. Makes you feel like you're back in time attending mass. Lots of awesome photo opportunities & sights too, see. Lots of history in this building it felt surreal. It's definitely a must if you're interested in religious history and architech.

They were practicing for a concert and the choir was amazing.

We visited Inglesia de San Jose Catholic Church this week while visiting Old San Juan. It’s a small church, but beautiful nonetheless. Just a few blocks from the main cathedral basilica, the church stands out prominently at the end of a street, a beautiful white facade. Inside is very special as well. The main area of the church is reverent, and there are many side aisles and chapels. Beautiful statues, paintings, sculptures are found throughout the church. There are also several areas where, as they modernize the church, the original stone and brick structure of the building can be seen. That’s pretty cool! Much history there! A wonderful place to visit regardless of your religious affiliation! Highly recommend a visit to Inglesia de San Jose!

Beautiful and oldest church in Puerto Rico. We felt very peaceful after visiting this church. There are few other places in San Juan which is the oldest in PR. There are also walking guides available who explain the history of San Juan.

Gorgeous church with amazing restoration completed in 2021 that is innovative in how to preserve and display the history of the church. Its very beautiful interior, it is restored with several alters that present very old pieces.

The locals told this is a must visit. We agree! This church is a national treasure of San Juan and Puerto Rico. For two decades it has been under renovation and the final product is absolutely stunning. The attention to detail through the church is exquisite. The renovation designers were going for a simple clean look, soothing to the eye and the soul. They nailed it. The church is open to all at during the opening hours. I would have posted the times, but they seem to be in flux. At the time of our visit, they were open Wednesday- Saturday for visitors and Sunday for services. The day we visited, there was a memorial/funeral service about to begin. It was very interesting to see them using the facility at the same time tourist were exploring the church. Who will enjoy this? We brought our two boys, 13 and 16, and they hung with us no problem! Overall, I’m in complete agreement with the locals. This is a must church see on your visit to San Juan. If you find this review helpful, please consider liking it so others may find it as well.

On the recommendation of a local artist, we stopped by Galeria Botello to check out his art… it was very interesting, very original! Not our cup of tea, but we could see why he’s popular. Several other artists/sculptors have their works displayed there. If you’re looking for quality local artwork, Galeria Botello is worth walking through!

It was amazing! The art is mind blowing. The owner gave us a private tour and explained the history and inspiration behind each piece. Located in Old San Juan and a must see if you are an art lover and in the area

Lovely gallery with important history and the work of Ángel Botello, highly recommend!

This artist is awesome, you want to add a unique piece to your interior garden? Check his sculptures, they are out of this world. Also his paintings are excellent, a great addition to any living room. My personal opinion, he is the Latin Picasso. When in Puerto Rico, visit his art gallery in Calle Del Cristo, Old San Juan. One thing... if you like cats... he is a cat person, so you can expect some incredible cat sculptures.

Old but well renovated building, see old San Juan from inside. Amazing collection of Angel Botello art pictures, prints and books, check wooden santos collection and modern Puerto Rican art. Ask for an access to a private Angel Botello museum on the second floor, bring your whole family to enjoy art and talk with gallery stuff and owner. Very friendly and well knowledgeable people.

Fantastic gallery, very knowledgeable staff and nice varied collection of original work. I left with an original Santos and was very happy with the entire process!

This may be my favorite art gallery in the world. I ended up here magically on the recommendation of a gallery host at the Museo de Puerto Rico. She said if I like Angel Botello’s work that I should check out his son’s gallery in Old San Juan. I walked in and didn’t even make it half way through the shop before spending a lot of money on an INCREDIBLE piece by local Puerto Rican artist, Juan Ramon Velazquez. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Everyone here is super friendly and the art is other worldly.

Went for a funeral service. Very nicely done. The music was piped, but well chosen. The acoustics are also updated so it was easy to hear. This is my first time in the new church. It is well designed and really lovely.

This Catholic Church is definitely a great place of worship and prayer 🙏. Amen 🙏. All are definitely welcome 😁

Beautiful venue for a choir concert. Modern, deceptively simple design. Roomy, comfortable pews (though not padded), with convenient racks that held my phone, concert program, and small purse. Great acoustics.

Very well decorated and maintained for such a historical site. Air conditioned has been installed as well. Wonderful place for those who prefer a church wedding.

Best mass ever! Beautiful church, they even have a sign language interpreter. Highly recommend it!

Father Damian Walls celebrated mass here sometime ago every saturday. I hope he gets well soon.

Very nicely renovated church. They have mass every day in Spanish, and Saturday and Sunday in English.

(Translated by Google) Just stop by and enter once a few years ago at the Seven Monuments. It was the first temple to go and start the journey. (Original) Solo pase y entre una vez hace unos años atrás en los Siete Monumentos. Fue el primer templo en ir e iniciar la jornada.

(Translated by Google) Mass time: Saturday 3:00 p.m. m. (Original) Horario de la misa: sábado 3:00 p. m.

Awesome place!

(Translated by Google) extraordinary people (Original) Gente extraordinaria

(Translated by Google) The best... My Dad's house my place of refuge. I invite you to visit us and receive the love of Christ We are waiting for you (Original) La mejor ... La casa de mi Papá mi lugar de refugio. Te invito a que nos visites y recibas el amor de cristo Te esperamos

(Translated by Google) Beautiful Church and blessed services. I was a preacher (Original) Hermosa Iglesia y cultos bendecidos. Estuve en calidad de Predicador

(Translated by Google) Beautiful house of God (Original) Hermosa casa de Dios

(Translated by Google) A place to consecrate yourself to God (Original) Un lugar para consagrarse con Dios

Love the look and the feel of this historic church. The wedding attended here was beautiful been to old San Juan often never paid attention until recently.

(Translated by Google) It is my church and I have been going to it since I was born in Old San Juan. (Original) Es mi iglesia y voy a ella desde que nací en el Viejo San Juan.

(Translated by Google) A historic church, a loving congregation and good preaching and worship (Original) Una iglesia historica, la congregación smorosa y buena predicación y adoracion

If you are touring or strolling around Old San Juan, and specially at Calle Fortaleza be sure to go inside and take in the beauty of the historic building and the warmth of the people that loves it.

(Translated by Google) A very beautiful and historic church. (Original) Una iglesia muy bonita e histórica.

It's closed and in ruins but still worth a visit!

Beautiful abandoned architecture.

Closed but I enjoued the walk there, and the exterior is beautiful.

I just definitely this church would open soon. This is definitely a great Catholic Church. All angels and saints will always pray for us. Amen 🙏

Right now it looks abandoned, but its gothic façade makes it special.

Beautiful historical building in a fantastic location worthy of restoration...highly recommend to check the "no nonsense" architectural details reminiscent of real and practical values used to create peace, harmony in this community....

I cannot believe that this place is being left to rot. I hope they fix this place and open it to the public. It is a beautiful place and a special part of Puerto Rico's patrimony. Hopefully it is one day restored to its deserved glory.

Gvg xxxx cc :seven c.f. 'd4ddd f' xxx xdf

I want to go and play drums.

Beautiful church

(Translated by Google) Blessed Virgin Mary, who, to inspire my confidence, wanted to call yourself Mother of Perpetual Help! I beg you to help me at all times and in all places; in my temptations, after my falls, in my difficulties, in all the miseries of life and, above all, in the trance of death. Grant me, oh loving Mother!, the thought and habit of always turning to You; because I am certain that, if I am faithful in calling upon you, You will be faithful in helping me. Grant me, then, the grace to come to You without ceasing with the trust of a son, so that I may obtain Your perpetual help and final perseverance. Bless me and pray for me now and at the hour of my death. So be it. Oh Mother of Perpetual Help! Pray to Jesus for me, and save me. (Original) Santísima Virgen María, que para inspirarme confianza habéis querido llamaros Madre del Perpetuo Socorro! Yo os suplico me socorráis en todo tiempo y en todo lugar; en mis tentaciones, después de mis caídas, en mis dificultades, en todas las miserias de la vida y, sobre todo, en el trance de la muerte. Concédeme, ¡oh amorosa Madre!, el pensamiento y la costumbre de recurrir siempre a Vos; porque estoy cierto de que, si soy fiel en invocaros, Vos seréis fiel en socorrerme. Alcanzadme, pues, la gracia de acudir a Vos sin cesar con la confianza de un hijo, a fin de que obtenga vuestro perpetuo socorro y la perseverancia final. Bendecidme y rogad por mí ahora y en la hora de mi muerte. Así sea. ¡Oh Madre del Perpetuo Socorro! Rogad a Jesús por mí, y salvadme.

(Translated by Google) Everything was fine in the church except for the terrible heat. (Original) Todo bien en la iglesia menos el calor terrible que hacia.

(Translated by Google) Every Sunday Mass 11 am. And I do the readings of the day. I love (Original) Todos los domingos Misa 11 am. Y hago las lecturas del dia. Me encanta

(Translated by Google) IT IS MY PARISH SINCE MY CHILDHOOD, AND IT IS LIKE MY SECOND HOME, MY EXTENDED FAMILY, AND WHERE I WILL BE IN PEACE, WITH THE LORD AND RECEIVE HIS BLESSINGNNNNNN...AMENNNNN (Original) ES MI PARROQUIA DESDE MI INFANCIA,Y ES COMO MI SEGUNDA CASA,MI FAMILIA EXTENDIDA,Y DONDE VOY A ESTAR EN PAZ,CON EL SEÑOR Y A RECIBIR SU BENDICIONNNNNNN...AMENNNNN

A beautiful church. They offer adult confirmation courses 3 times a year. Call before you go.

The priest gives a very thoughtful and updated explanation of the scriptures. The way he gets you to focus in your life and to internalize how you need to commit to the teachings of Christ is very deep and meaningful.

Very nice parrish church!

Father Frances prayed for Basil Tsangarinos ,92 years old and who had blood and urine infection and pneumonia in Doctor's hospital in SANTURCE . I strongly believe that GOD place father Frances at the hospital to pray for Basil (which he did-prayer of healing) because the following day Basil was healed from blood and urine infection and pneumonia and was discharged to his home a day later. Thank you father Frances for your humbleness .

Weekday mass is at 12:15 pm NOT at 12:30pm. Under COVID 19 As of Oct. 2020 mass continue to be at 12:15 noon on weekdays. On saturday at 5:15 pm and on Sunday at 9:00 & 11:30 am. Monday is close.

Great church. Very humble priests and God servants.

I, AM A CATHOLIC FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN. I, BELIEVE IN THE SACRED HEART OF OUR HEAVENLY LORD JESUS CHRIST, THANK YOU FOR ALL THE SPIRITUAL HELP. AMEN 🙏 PARROQUIA SAGRADO CORAZON DE JESUS

Interesting construction and scenic landmark

It's looks like it's abandoned!

This is a review of the management of the church and not the church itself. Church hours shown here are highly inaccurate. They don’t answer the phone whenever you call either.

The only English mass on the island. Father Damien Wall is a priest from NY who has been in PR for more years than most if US have lived. 10am Sundays.

Beautiful church

This very old Church is still being repaired after damage due to Hurricane Maria, but at least they are going on with the services offered to parishioners. It is more than 100 yrs. old and worth a visit!

Very beautiful architecture, very pleasant to visit, nice place to go to mass

What can I say. It’s so nice to have a temple nearby. It’s small but completely functional. And they have a nice room where we can have snacks before the session.

Puerto Rico is a beautiful island with great food, snorkeling and shopping! Old San Juan is difficult to get around if you have disabilities with walking due to hilly cobblestone roads, but still enjoyed the old church, fort and shopping districts!

Beautiful LDS temple. Opened in 2023. We visited on Monday and even though all the gates were closed, because the temple grounds are closed on Monday, the brothers we talked to at the main entrance allowed us to get in to take some pictures. The area is not the best, but it was easy to find and it was a good experience.

Beautiful and peaceful place to feel close to God!

Nice experience, they had a nice place to change and get cleaned up before we went inside.

Beautiful temple. I visited during the open house (December 3rd) and explored the grounds and interior of the temple. It is beautifully decorated and very quiet. I loved the portrait of El Yunque and the stained glass art on the doors and windows.

Beautiful place... old town feel.. highly recommend

This church within the San Juan city is definitely a great place of worship and prayer. Amen 🙏

Father Olin, has always been very attentive of new comers/ parrishioners.

Small and personal setting. Very down to earth. 6 pm Mass is intimate.

Father Olin is top notch and spiritual priest...

Founded since 1776. The first church built in Santurce.

Beautiful church.

Very good

My favorite place for connecting with God in a historic place!!! At last a place where you can feel welcome and appreciated!!! Enjoy the experience!!!

The 11:15 service lasted over 1.5 hours. At that particular time, this Church is an Anglican Church not Episcopalian. “ Yes Dorothy, there is a difference”. The building is solemn and beautiful. It’s a nice place to visit once.

Doing good in the community!

Mystic place to pray.

Loved it

Sanctuary for all

(Translated by Google) My experience has been wonderful. I have a very large and spiritual family. I feel very happy to belong to the Diocecis Episcopal Church of Puerto Rico. They have given my life a lot of happiness. They have filled a void that was very big inside me. GOD bless you all. (Original) Mi experiencia ha sido maravillosa.Tengo una familia muy grande y bien espiritual Me siento muy feliz de pertenecer a la iglesia Episcopal Diocecis de Puerto Rico.Han dado a mi vida mucha felicidad. Han llenado un vacío que había muy grande dentro de mi.DIOS los bendiga a todos.