The geographic and symbolic heart of the French Quarter. St. Louis Cathedral (1789, rebuilt 1850) anchors the square, flanked by the Cabildo and Presbytere — both now Louisiana State Museum branches. The square itself is a pedestrian park with street artists, tarot readers, musicians, and tourist overflow. The cathedral is the oldest continuously active Catholic cathedral in the United States.
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Walk the square early morning before the vendor setup. The cathedral is free to enter (donations appreciated) — the interior is more subdued than the exterior suggests, but the altar and stained glass are worth a pause. The Cabildo next door covers Louisiana history under Spanish and French rule, including the Louisiana Purchase signing. Climb to the Presbytere balcony for Mississippi River views.
Early morning (before 9am) for the square without crowds. Late afternoon golden light on the cathedral facade. Evening when the gas lamps are lit and the square takes on a different character. The cathedral is open daily for visitors except during Mass.
The current cathedral dates to 1850 (the original 1789 structure was rebuilt after fire damage). The Cabildo to the left is where the Louisiana Purchase transfer documents were signed in 1803 — this is where the United States officially took possession of the Louisiana Territory from France. The architecture of the square reflects Spanish colonial planning (the French lost control in 1763). Jackson Square was originally the Place d'Armes, a military parade ground.