Saint Mary's Cathedral
Saint Mary's Cathedral is a grand architectural achievement
Saint Mary's Cathedral has evolved into a grandiose Sydney landmark over a a period of over 130 years. Situated along the east side of Hyde Park in the Central Business District it is visible from many different vantage points. It is also Australia's largest church.
Featuring Gothic Revival architecture along the lines of the smaller and older St Andrew's Cathedral, the first stone for this beautiful Sydney landmark was laid back in 1868 after a succession of Catholic Churches, some of which were destroyed by fire. The Cathedral was finally dedicated in 1882, but it was only a portion of what it is today. The nave was not completed until 1928 followed by the crypt in 1961. And last, but not least the large spires on to of the two towers were not added until the year 2000 in order to improve the aesthetics of the previously square topped towers.
While the design of St. Mary's Cathedral is original it certainly inherits many features typical of far more medival churches from Europe. Due to the size of the project and the available location the Cathedral is oriented north-south breaking the tradition of east-west orientation.
Forty pictorial stained glass windows and striking mosaic floors along with a myriad of other fine details complete this elegant and grand Cathedral.
Nearby attractions: Hyde Park, Hyde Park Barracks Museum and the Australian Museum.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoSaint Mary's Cathedral Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Address: St Marys Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9220 0400
Official Website: Saint Mary's Cathedral
Saint Mary's Cathedral Reviews
Rated out of 5
St. Mary's Cathedral in Sydney is absolutely breathtaking! The towering spires and intricate details make it a true marvel. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful stained glass windows create a sense of serenity. It's a place where you can feel a connection to history and find a moment of quiet reflection. The architecture is stunning, and the cathedral's presence adds to the charm of Sydney. Whether you're admiring it from afar or stepping inside, St. Mary's Cathedral is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of Sydney.
W Y - 3 months ago
I visited this beautiful cathedral earlier this month. The place is beautiful and divine. When you walk in, the buzzing city is behind and you’re in a sanctuary of peace. Simply sitting down and soaking up the vibe will transport you to another world. At the moment, they have beautiful flower gardens at the front square. Well worth a visit while you’re in the city.
Esther Lee - a month ago
Are you Catholic? Well, it doesn't matter anyway because this cathedral is absolutely stunning and can be appreciated by everyone.
Everything from the stained glass windows to the various prayer stations it just is super extravagant. I wished I would have been able to hear the organ because it is an absolute sight to see.
This is totally worth visiting if you're in the city and is not far off from the Opera House. Walk through the botanical gardens to get there from the Opera House and you'll treat yourself even more.
Josh Wells - 3 weeks ago
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Sydney, St Mary's Cathedral emerged as a haven of peace and serenity. The grandeur of its Gothic architecture took my breath away. The intricate sandstone facade, adorned with spires reaching towards the sky, instantly transported me to a bygone era.
Stepping inside, I was enveloped by a sense of awe. The soaring ceilings, bathed in the warm glow of stained glass windows, cast a kaleidoscope of colors onto the polished stone floor. The air hummed with a quiet reverence, a stark contrast to the urban cacophony outside.
As I wandered through the cathedral, I was struck by the intricate details - the delicate carvings, the life-sized statues of saints, and the grand altar. Each element whispered stories of faith, devotion, and artistry. I found myself drawn to a quiet corner, where I sat for a while, simply soaking in the atmosphere.
While I'm not Catholic myself, St Mary's Cathedral offered a unique space for reflection and introspection. It transcended religious affiliation, serving as a testament to the power of human devotion and the beauty of artistic expression. Whether you're a visitor seeking cultural immersion or a local yearning for a moment of solace, St Mary's Cathedral is a place that will leave a lasting impression.
Thanh Hảo Lê - a month ago
A truly amazing beautiful Cathedral I Sydney. The architecture is brilliant weather the inside and the outside of the church .
St Mary 's Cathedral is a must visit when in Sydney.
Among the many remarkable features are the stained glass windows. A solemn place .
Louie Temp - a month ago
Directions
| Train Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| T2, T3 or T8 | St. James Station | 1 minute |
How to get to Saint Mary's Cathedral by Train
By Train: St. James Station exits at Hyde Park just west of the Cathedral. Simply walk through the park to get to St. Mary's.
By Bus: Bus 333 runs up and down Elizabeth Street through the CBD. You can disembark at St. James Station and proceed as above.
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Photo Gallery
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Interior of St. Mary's Cathedral cc licensed photo by Rob Young -
Photo Credit: Jorge Lascar - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mikecogh - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sidneiensis - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sydney Heritage - cc license via Flickr
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