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
It is the spiritual home of the city’s Catholic community. It stands on the site of the first Catholic Chapel in Australia and is constructed from local sandstone. The Gothic Revival architectural style pays homage to 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. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney and holds significant historical and religious importance in the region. I am so grateful that I get a chance to visit, I love exploring its stunning architecture and rich history! 🌟🏰🙏
Ryian Benitez - a month ago
Absolutely stunning cathedral that is a must see for anyone visiting the city but especially Catholics. Caught the midday mass and even without the choir it was a beautiful service. The arched ceilings and Gothic sculptures combined with towering stained glass windows and beautifully crafted statues makes the art alone worth an hour of exploration. The Anzac memorial nearly brought me to tears.
Crystal D'Souza - in the last week
Majestic! I really can't explain how beautiful it is, both inside and out. Hearing mass inside this very beautiful Cathedral feels like I'm in Vatican itself. You really need to experience it firsthand to appreciate it more.
Louie Cabrera - 2 months ago
Majestic! I was able to attend the solemn mass, and I highly recommend it as the choristers are a gem to this Gothic Sydney signature building! The reverence and homage you pay as tribute in this majestic place couldn't be more otherworldly!
In awe.
MP GS - 4 weeks ago
St Mary's Cathedral Church is a very classic building, very beautiful, inside the Church I was very amazed by all the beautiful ornaments of the Church, and I am very grateful to God because I can attend Mass at St Mary's Cathedral Catholic Church, Sidney
Josef Denny Pryanto - in the last week
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: Rmonty119 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Jorge Lascar - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: mikecogh - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sidneiensis - cc license via Flickr
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