The Cathedral of St. Philip the Apostle stands at the edge of the main plaza in Arecibo's historic centre, a solid neoclassical building that anchors the old town. It is the seat of the Diocese of Arecibo and the most significant religious building in the city.
The interior is well-maintained and cooler than the street outside, with painted vaulted ceilings and wooden pews. The cathedral is active and holds regular masses; visitors are welcome during non-service hours. The plaza in front provides a view of the colonial-era commercial buildings surrounding it, including several that are listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.