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Namirembe Cathedral, St Paul’s, is the Anglican cathedral of Kampala, standing on Namirembe Hill with wide views over the city. The current red-brick building was completed in 1919 after earlier churches on the site were destroyed, and it is the mother church of the Church of Uganda. Its hilltop setting, history and Sunday services make it a rewarding stop.
History
Christian missionaries from the Church Missionary Society arrived in Buganda in 1877, and the first church on Namirembe Hill followed in the 1890s. Earlier buildings were lost to collapse and lightning, and the present cathedral was consecrated in 1919. The graveyard holds notable figures, including the medical missionary Sir Albert Cook, founder of Mengo Hospital nearby.
Visiting
Visitors are welcome outside services, and attending a Sunday service, with its choir and lively singing, is a memorable experience; dress modestly. The cathedral grounds offer some of the best views of Kampala’s hills. Allow 30 to 60 minutes.
Combining your visit
Namirembe is close to Mengo and the Kabaka’s Palace, and to Lubaga’s Catholic cathedral on the next hill. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Kampala’s religious landmarks, the Uganda National Mosque, the Kabaka’s Palace and the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine.
Frequently asked questions
The current building was completed in 1919.
The Anglican Church of Uganda.
Yes, visitors are welcome at Sunday services.
Notable figures include Sir Albert Cook, founder of Mengo Hospital.
