St. John’s Cathedral

St. John’s Cathedral dates back to the early 1800s and is the oldest Anglican church in Central America. The cathedral, located in Belize City, is not only a place where the congregation still celebrates their faith, but it also has a big historical influence due to its colonial past. When the colonial empires fought over control of what was back then known as British Honduras, the cathedral was built by slave labor over eight years. Painstakingly, with bricks brought on ships all the way from Europe. The façade looks humble, but it just so happens that this little Anglican church is the only place outside of England, where real kings were crowned.
Four kings of the Indian Miskito tribe, which inhabited the Mosquito coast, were coronated with full British ceremonial pomp that rivaled the kingly ceremonies back in London. Of course, the Mosquito Kings were an effort by the British to keep the tribe on their good side and protect power, land and wealth from the rivaling Spanish invaders. The attempt was short-lived, but today you can still delve into some unique royal history and admire the beautiful stained glass windows, the mahogany pews and the antique organ. 

Practical Info

St. John’s Cathedral can be found at the intersection of Regent Street and Albert Street, right across the street from the House of Culture. The church can be visited daily from 6am to 6pm.