The Presbytère

The Presbytère Review

One of twin Spanish colonial-style buildings flanking St. Louis Cathedral, this one, on the right, was designed to house the priests of the cathedral; instead, it served as a courthouse under the Spanish and later under the Americans. It is now a museum showcasing a spectacular collection of Mardi Gras memorabilia, and displays highlight both the little-known and popular traditions associated with New Orleans's most famous festival. Opened in October 2010, "Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond" is a $7.5 million exhibition exploring the history, science, and powerful human drama of one of nature's most destructive forces. The building's cupola, destroyed by a hurricane in 1915, was restored in 2005 to match the one atop its twin, the Cabildo. Allow at least an hour to see the exhibits.