The Presbytère

Overview

The Presbytère flanks the opposite side of St. Louis Cathedral from the Cabildo and houses two outstanding permanent exhibitions: one on Mardi Gras and another on Hurricane Katrina.

Highlights

• Mardi Gras Exhibition: Elaborate costumes, floats, and the history of Carnival traditions.
• Living with Hurricanes: A powerful multimedia exhibit on Katrina and resilience.
• Architecture: A symmetrical match to the Cabildo in Spanish colonial style.

History

Designed in 1791 to match the Cabildo, the building was intended as a rectory for the cathedral but was never used as one. It became part of the Louisiana State Museum in 1911.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The Mardi Gras exhibit is the best introduction to Carnival culture.
• Tip 2: Plan to visit both the Cabildo and Presbytère in one trip.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.