Rubaga Cathedral: Uganda’s sacred beacon for tourists

Rubaga Cathedral (also spelled Lubaga Cathedral) is not just a church, rather it is a landmark, a wonder of history and a must visit to any tourist who is touring Kampala, Uganda. Located on the Rubaga Hill, the Roman Catholic cathedral is a piece of the religious history of the country and it is visited by thousands of world tourists, architecture and photography enthusiasts and many others.

It is important to travelers because of the meeting place of spiritual calm and eternal beauty. Sitting on the top of the hill, the cathedral overlooks the city and its highly symbolic architecture as well as its interesting history of early missionaries and the native kingdoms. Regardless of whether one is religious or not, entering this sacred place is an in-depth trip through the history and the present of Uganda.

Front view of Rubaga Cathedral today

Where is Rubaga Cathedral located?

Rubaga Cathedral, commonly known as Lubaga Cathedral, sits on the top of Rubaga Hill, one of the most prominent hills in Kampala, about three kilometres west of the city centre. The following are the pertinent facts:

• Address: Lubaga Hill, Kampala, Uganda
• GPS coordinates: 0.3056° N, 32.5531° E
• Landmarks nearby: Kabaka’s Palace, Old Kampala Mosque and Mengo Hospital

The location offers convenience as well as panoramas to the travellers. In the past, Lake Victoria was visible on clear days from Rubaga Hill, though urban development has limited these views.

Accessibility

Rubaga Cathedral is accessible by private car, boda-boda (motorbike taxis), Uber or Bolt. It’s also included in most Kampala city tour packages.

Historical background for curious visitors

The Rubaga Cathedral, also known as St Mary Cathedral Rubaga, is the oldest standing Catholic cathedral in Uganda. Before the current cathedral was built between 1914 and 1925, an earlier wooden church stood on Rubaga Hill. It was one of the palace of the King of Buganda, Kabaka Muteesa I before the Catholic White Fathers missionaries arrived in 1879. Upon his death, the missionaries were given the hill and they went ahead to construct a church that would be the hub of Catholicism in Uganda.

Architectural beauty of Rubaga Cathedral

The cathedral boasts Romanesque Revival architecture, a style that’s uncommon in East Africa. With red-brick exteriors, symmetrical towers and grand arches, it reminds many tourists of European basilicas.

Key architectural highlights:

• Stained-glass windows imported from Europe
• Twin towers marking the facade
• A grand altar and sanctuary richly adorned with Catholic iconography
• Mosaic floors and vaulted ceilings echoing Latin design
• A majestic pipe organ

Tourists often marvel at how the design strikes a balance between sacred grandeur and welcoming charm. If you’re into ecclesiastical architecture, Rubaga Cathedral is an unmissable stop.

Aerial view of Rubaga Cathedral and its surroundings

Things to do at Rubaga Cathedral

Even if you’re not attending mass, there’s plenty for a tourist to do:

1. Take a guided tour – Learn the stories behind the cathedral’s design and relics.
2. Admire the art and stained glass – A visual journey through biblical tales.
3. Join in choir rehearsals – Choir rehearsals are sometimes open to visitors, but it’s advisable to ask permission in advance.
4. Photograph the landscape and architecture – Capture both the cityscape and spiritual interior.
5. Visit the tomb of Bishop Joseph Kiwanuka – The first native African Catholic bishop south of the Sahara, interred beneath the cathedral.

Rubaga Hill: The scenic setting of the Cathedral

Rubaga hill offers one of the best panoramic views of Kampala. The cathedral is on its peak, with the gardens and flowering trees all around it, with terracotta walkways winding through it, past the calm religious figures. 

The change of atmosphere is tangible and the visitors usually notice it, as it is calm, high both literally and spiritually and serene. To several travelers, it is not just a tourist attraction site but a place to relax and think.

Rubaga Cathedral in its early years

Best time to visit Rubaga Cathedral

Uganda has a tropical climate and the best months for travel are June to September and December to February.

Best visiting hours:

• Weekdays: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Weekends: Can be busy due to weddings and services

Tip: Visiting on weekday mornings guarantees fewer crowds and better photo opportunities inside and out.

Cultural significance to Uganda

Rubaga Cathedral stands not only as a Catholic stronghold but as a national symbol of unity and spiritual progress. It has hosted major events, such as:

• Pope John Paul II visited Rubaga Cathedral in 1993 as part of his wider pastoral trip, though his main public Mass was celebrated at Namugongo Shrine.
• National martyrs' celebrations
• Interfaith memorials for fallen leaders

It is a pillar of Buganda Kingdom history and a symbol of how colonial, religious and indigenous histories intertwine.

Inside Rubaga Cathedral: What you’ll see

Step inside and you're met with a cathedral that speaks in stained glass, shadow and light.

Highlights:

• Main Altar with intricate wood carving and candlelit backdrop
• Stations of the Cross lining the walls
• Memorial to Cardinal Emmanuel Nsubuga
• Papal memorabilia from past Vatican visits

This interior is a photographer’s and pilgrim’s dream - tranquil yet expressive.

Touring tips for first-time visitors

Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

• Dress modestly (no sleeveless tops or short skirts)
• Ask before taking photos inside, especially during services
• Keep noise to a minimum
• Respect areas marked private or restricted
• Hire a guide for richer context (many speak English)

Rubaga Cathedral at sunset

Rubaga Cathedral mass schedule and ceremonies

Masses are open to all, including tourists.

Attending mass is highly recommended - the choir alone is worth it.

Nearby attractions for tourists

Once you've experienced the cathedral, extend your trip with nearby destinations:

• Kasubi Tombs – UNESCO heritage site, 10 mins away
• Bulange Parliament Building – Traditional Buganda Kingdom seat
• Old Kampala Mosque – Open to visitors, panoramic dome views
• Namirembe Cathedral – Anglican counterpart to Rubaga

Inside the Rubaga Cathedral

Events and pilgrimage experiences

Key events attract both tourists and pilgrims:

• Uganda Martyrs Day (June 3rd) – While Rubaga Cathedral holds special masses, the main pilgrimage site for Uganda Martyrs Day is Namugongo Shrine.
• Christmas Eve Mass – Highly ceremonial
• Interfaith choir competitions

Participating in or witnessing these events gives you a deep cultural immersion into Ugandan spirituality.

Photography tips at Rubaga Cathedral

• Golden hour: Arrive by 7 AM or 5 PM
• Wide-angle lens: Best for capturing both towers
• Tripods: Allowed outdoors only
• Best interior shot: Center aisle facing the altar

Use natural light. Artificial flash is often frowned upon during services.

How to get there and entry information

Rubaga Cathedral is easy to access:

• From Kampala CBD: 15-minute drive
• Public transit: Board taxis heading to “Mengo” or “Rubaga”
• Entry: Free, but donations welcome
• Guides: Available on request; UGX 10,000–20,000 ($3–6 USD)

Rubaga Cathedral during mass

Final thoughts: Why Rubaga Cathedral should be on every tourist's list

Rubaga Cathedral is not just a collection of bricks and history, it is a living breathing part of the soul of Uganda. The tourists who want to find culture, history, spirituality or a peaceful escape above the noise of Kampala will find it here.

Its welcoming architecture, rich history and community-based existence make it not only a top-notch attraction in Kampala but also a memorable travel experience. Include Rubaga Cathedral in your Uganda trip - you will not regret it.