Sydney, Australia-12/26/2017 -1/1/2018

Day 3-St. Mary Cathedral-12/28/2017

St. Mary Cathedral is the first Catholic Chapel in Australia, constructed of local sandstone, the Gothic revival style of its architecture is reminiscent of the great medieval cathedrals of Europe.

The Cathedral is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Immaculate Mother of God, Help of Christians.

St Mary's has the greatest length of any church in Australia (although it is neither the tallest nor largest overall). It is located on College Street near the eastern border of the Sydney central business district.  Despite the high-rise development of the central business district, the cathedral's imposing structure and twin spires make it a landmark from every direction. In 2008, St Mary's Cathedral became the focus of World Youth Day 2008 and was visited by Pope Benedict XVI who consecrated the new forward altar. The cathedral was designed by William Wardell and built from 1866 to 1928. It is also known as St Mary's Catholic Cathedral and Chapter House, Saint Mary's Cathedral and St Mary's Cathedral. The property was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 3 September 2004.

 

Statue of ST. Mary right at the entrance of the church.

 

The entrance

 

As you walk in the door, on the immediate left there is a huge nativity scene in the Chapel of the Sacred heart.

 

Close look at the nativity scene

 

View of the side alley from the entrance.

 

Beautiful stained glass windows and vaulted ceiling.

 

Ceiling details made with painted oak.

 

The stained-glass windows in the Cathedral were crafted in England at the Hardman studios in Birmingham from 1881 onwards.

 

The main altar view from the entrance.

 

 

 
Close look at the main altar. 

 

Chapel of Our Lady with stained glass windows and the reredos features statues of influential female saints.

 

 

Panting of Jesus Chris carrying the cross.

 

In 1997 the Canadian organ builders, Orgues Le Tourneau were commissioned to build a large new organ to be located in the west transept.

This splendid 46 stop instrument was installed and blessed just prior to Christmas 1999.

 

Rose window transept above the organ.

 

View from the main altar toward the entrance/exit door.

 

 


Located previously in the crypt was the Grave of the Unknown Soldier, a realistic depiction of a dead soldier sculpted by George Washington Lambert. Although previously visible to the public from above, the tomb has now been moved into the aisle of the cathedral, to give the public greater access to it.

 

Closer view of the statue.

 

Display case including metal decorative design and remains of sandstone decorative carvings.


 

NEXT... Hyde park/City Bus Tour

 

 

Home

Travel

Our house

Birthdays

Photo Gallery

 Mon  petit coin