St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne Australia
St Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral in Melbourne. It is the cathedral church of the Diocese of Melbourne and the seat of the Archbishop of Melbourne who is also the metro political archbishop of the Province of Victoria and since 28 June 2014, the present seat of the Primate of Australia.
The cathedral has a surprising interior. The browns and beige are offset by the gold and stained glass windows at the altar.
Opposite Federation Square, St Paul’s Cathedral was built between 1880 and 1931. Constructed in sandstone, the current building replaced an earlier bluestone church, built on the site where the first public Christian services in Melbourne were led by Dr. Alexander Thomson in 1836.
Designed by William Butterfield, the architecture of the cathedral is described as Gothic transitional, combining Early English and Decorative styles. Highlights include the fine polychromatic brickwork, beautiful patterned floor tiles and mosaics, banded stonework, fine-timbered roof, and tiles on the dado wall.
The cathedral is beautiful. It’s free to walk around and if you wish to take photos or film, you will need to purchase a photography pass; it’s $5.00 for photography and $15.00 for video.
Lovely stained glass doors and windows, architecture, and interesting historical information. There is a gift shop selling some lovely gifts. There is no charge to enter the Cathedral but if desired a donation is welcome.
Volunteers give you a little leaflet guide so you can walk around and understand what you are looking at and its history. Whether you are into religion or not, this is a great place to visit and admire the beauty in its craftsmanship.
We really enjoyed the calm and peace of being inside and away from the hubbub of a big city.
Showcases with plates and cups from the Nancy Curry Memorial Collection
For more information, please visit www.cathedral.org.au
Cathedral Opening Hours
Monday – Friday : 8.00am – 6.00pm
Saturday : 9.00am – 4.00pm
Sunday : 7.30am – 7.30pm
Public Holiday : 11.00am – 3.00pm
Location
St Paul’s Cathedral, Corner Flinders and Swanston Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia
Getting here
By Train
The nearest train station is Flinders Street station. St Paul’s Cathedral is located directly opposite the Flinders Street station clocktower at the interstation of Flinders and Swanston streets.
By Tram
Flinders Street and Swanston Street are both easily accessible by multiple tram routes.
