St Mary's Cathedral

Overview

St Mary's Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Sydney and one of the finest examples of English Gothic Revival architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. Built from local golden sandstone, its twin spires were only completed in 2000, 132 years after construction began.

Highlights

• Terrazzo crypt floor: A spectacular mosaic floor in the crypt depicting the Creation, designed by Melocco Brothers.
• Great North Window: A 9-metre stained glass window depicting the Assumption of Mary.
• Organ: The 1942 Romanos organ with 7,000 pipes fills the 107-metre nave.

History

The first St Mary's (1821) was destroyed by fire in 1865. Architect William Wardell designed the replacement in decorated English Gothic style; construction lasted from 1868 to 1928, with the spires finally added in 2000.

Visitor Tips

• Free entry: Open daily for visitors and prayer.
• Crypt access: Ask at the front desk — the terrazzo floor is the highlight.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.