Temples & religious sites
Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family
Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family
The Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nairobi. It stands on the site of the city's first stone building from 1904, though the current structure was completed in 1963 and designated a basilica in 1982. Visitors go here to see the architecture of the primary Catholic church in the city and to observe its role as a religious center in Nairobi.
Getting There
The basilica is located within the central business district of Nairobi. If you are staying in the city centre, it is accessible via a short walk or a quick taxi ride. Depending on your exact starting point, travel time typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 45 to 90 minutes to walk through the grounds and view the interior of the basilica.
When to Visit
The site is generally quiet during weekday mornings, but it becomes crowded during Sunday mass and other religious holidays. Visitors should be mindful of scheduled services to avoid interrupting worshippers.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location, the basilica can be combined with several other landmarks within walking distance:
- Teleposta Towers (0.2km)
- Nyayo House (0.3km)
- Kenyatta International Convention Centre (0.3km)
- Jamia Mosque (0.4km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors