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Melbourne is not only about modern attractions such as plazas, bars, restaurants, museums, or art galleries. This city is also great for a history buff, especially for those seeking a historical religious destination. One of the recommended places is St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne.
Now, sit tight as we glimpse why this cathedral is interesting and what you can do around this amazing place. Once you read this article, you will not hesitate to add this beautiful church to your list of places to go in Melbourne city!
History of St Paul’s Cathedral
Christianity is one of the major Australian religions, with Anglican having the second most followers after Catholicism. St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne was and still is an integral part of the Christian population in Melbourne. This Anglican Church is located in the busiest intersection in the city, right opposite Federation Square. It is not only a landmark of Melbourne but also the most visited sacred place in Victoria, with over 400,000 visitors every year.
The foundation stone of this cathedral was laid in 1880 on the site where the first public Christian service was held. The construction took 11 years before its consecration, on January 22, 1891. It was then continued in 1926 with the construction of the three spires.
In 1960, the first exterior restoration began, and in 1989, the organ was also undergoing restoration. In 2009, another restoration was made to the interior and exterior of the Cathedral.
Interesting Facts about St Paul’s Cathedral
Several things make this cathedral an interesting landmark to visit. These are some of them:
The Spires
This cathedral was built in 1880 and consecrated in 1891. However, the spires were only built 40 years later using different stones from the Sydney area. That is why if you look at the spires closely, you will notice that they have a completely different color than the other part of the church.
Standing tall 95 meters high, after the construction of the Moorhouse spire, St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne became the tallest building in central Melbourne.
Built on a Historical Site
Before its construction, the site was a place where the first Christian service for the public was held in Melbourne in 1835. Then, it was turned into a government reserve used as a corn market. In 1848, a Princess Bridge was built adjacent to the site and the site was granted to the Anglican Church.
Visited by Pope
With the dialogue between the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches, Pope John Paul II visited the cathedral on November 28, 1986. This is a historical occasion as only 3 times in 4 centuries has a reigning Pope visited an Anglican cathedral. To commemorate this, a memorial chapel was built.
What to See in St Paul’s Cathedral of Melbourne
The reputation of St Paul’s Cathedral Melbourne as the most popular Anglican Church should be enough reason to visit this wonderful place. However, there are many things you can enjoy in this church.
You can admire the stunning Decorative Gothic architecture combined with the Early English styles. The polychromatic brickwork, gorgeous patterned floor tiles, dado walls, and banded stonework will leave you stunned with admiration.
Aside from the gorgeous design, you can also join the regular services to enjoy the Anglican Church music. You can also enjoy listening to Bible Stories narrated by experienced storytellers.
Before leaving, don’t forget to step into the cathedral gift shop to get souvenirs for your loved ones.
If you still have the energy to explore Melbourne after enjoying every inch of the magnificent Cathedral, you can visit Brighton Beach and enjoy the sunny and warm weather there. As an alternative, you can also relax with your family at Melbourne Zoo while visiting all the exotic animals living here.
Related: 11 Native Animals of Australia, Some You’ve Never Heard Of
Melbourne is a beautiful city to visit, especially if you are passionate about history and nature. St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne is one of the landmarks worth visiting for the history buff and people who enjoy the beauty and tranquility of a church. So, don’t miss out on visiting this magnificent landmark!