The Presbytère, also known as The Presbytère houses, were originally funded by a Spanish philanthropist to resemble Louisiana’s Cabildo in 1791. The Cabildo was a Spanish Colonial building used by the local government and remains Louisiana’s most important historical building. While the Presbytère portrayed the same elegance as The Cabildo, the structure was built on the site of Capuchin monks, giving The Presbytère its name. Today, this magnificent building stands beside St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter of New Orleans. 

A Crucial Building for New Orleans

New Orleans put The Presbytère to good use – it has served the city as everything from a courthouse to a space for commercial use and is currently a crucial component of Louisiana State history. Since 1911, The Presbytère has taken on the role of ‘museum’, and houses incredible Mardi Gras memorabilia, history, and artifacts.

What to See at The Presbytère

The Presbytère hosts two exhibits: one showcasing the history and celebrations of Mardi Gras, the other telling the story of Louisiana’s resilience in the face of Hurricane Katrina. This duality makes The Presbytère a perfect representation of the city’s history, as well as the resilience and hopefulness of those who live there.