【Sydney】Introducing the Highlights & Tourist Information of St Mary’s Cathedral!

“St Mary’s Cathedral” is located to the northeast of Hyde Park, a park in the heart of Sydney’s city center, and is an unmissable popular tourist spot in Sydney.

The building is beautiful even from a distance, but when seen up close it is truly impressive. Just by looking at it, you will feel a sense of the sacred.

In this article, we will explain the exterior and interior views of St Mary’s Cathedral, as well as precautions for visiting.

What is St Mary’s Cathedral?

St Mary’s Cathedral (Sydney St Mary’s Cathedral), with its two sharply pointed towers, is the first Catholic church built in Australia.

While strolling through the lush Hyde Park, you will gradually be amazed as the magnificent Gothic-style building with its commanding presence reveals itself.

In 1821, under the direction of the then Governor of New South Wales, construction plans were advanced and it was designed by the British architect Pugin. However, in 1864 a fire broke out and the building was burnt down. Later, plans were made to rebuild it, and it was reconstructed over a long period of 60 years.

◆ A Sacred Site for Australian Catholics!

Today, many people from around the world, including tourists and worshipers, visit daily for mass.

This church serves as the center of Catholic faith in Australia and acts as a spiritual haven for believers.

Highlight ① of St Mary’s Cathedral: Its Impressive Exterior

“St Mary’s Cathedral” is an awe-inspiring sight with a height of 74m and a maximum depth of 107m. When you look up at it from close range, its enormous size is truly breathtaking.

The spires were added in 2000. Built in the Gothic Revival style, it is said to be one of the largest Gothic buildings in the Southern Hemisphere.

The sandstone-colored exterior looks beautiful at any time of day, but the recommended time for sightseeing is at dusk. The light of the setting sun enhances its beauty even further.

It is recommended to view its full figure from a distance. It is also a popular spot for photography and is renowned as a photogenic location.

Highlight [2] of St Mary’s Cathedral: The Magnificent Interior and Stained Glass

The beauty of St Mary’s Cathedral is not limited to its exterior. Its interior is equally beautiful, so when visiting, be sure to allocate ample time for exploration.

The height of the ceiling is about 22m, and in some places, it reaches up to around 46m. The high ceilings further enhance the sense of spaciousness, and you will be overwhelmed by the grandeur of the space.

◆ Also, Take Note of the Beautiful Stained Glass!

Near the ceiling, you will find an array of sophisticated and beautiful stained glass. Behind the main altar, there is a stained glass depicting the Coronation of the Virgin Mary, which was made in the late 19th century in Barkingham, England. Not only is its size impressive, but the intricacy will also amaze you.

Additionally, the various statues seen throughout are all magnificent. You will be captivated by the use of color and texture, losing track of time as you admire them.

Recommended Events at St Mary’s Cathedral

A pipe organ is installed in St Mary’s Cathedral. The currently installed pipe organ was set up in 1999 and is relatively new.

If you want to hear the sound of the pipe organ, it is recommended to visit on a day when a concert is held. The schedule is posted on the official website of St Mary’s Cathedral, so be sure to check it.

Also, during the Christmas season, a Christmas mass that gathers thousands of people is held every year. Since anyone can attend, why not participate when visiting at Christmas?

Information about the events held at St Mary’s Cathedral is also available on the official homepage.

◆ Observe Manners and Rules When Visiting

St Mary’s Cathedral is not just a place for tourists. Since many people attend mass and pray there, it is necessary to behave with decorum.

Flash photography is prohibited for taking pictures. Also, please be careful not to take photographs of people who are praying.

Additionally, it is advisable to avoid clothing that is too revealing. If you are wearing a hat, be sure to remove it before entering.

Avoid actions that breach proper etiquette, such as making loud noises or speaking loudly, so that everyone can enjoy their visit in a pleasant atmosphere.

How to Access St Mary’s Cathedral

St Mary’s Cathedral, with its magnificent and beautiful appearance, is a famous tourist spot in Sydney. It is convenient to access by train. If you get off at St James Station on the City Circle line, it is about a 2-minute walk away.

Since you can walk through Hyde Park on your way, you are sure to feel refreshed by the lush scenery.

There are many tourist spots around, such as Sydney Tower Eye, museums, and art galleries, as well as shopping spots like the Queen Victoria Building, so when visiting St Mary’s Cathedral, be sure to enjoy them together.

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【Sydney】Introducing the Highlights & Tourist Information of St Mary’s Cathedral!