Melbourne City Churches In Action

St Patrick’s Cathedral is located at the corner of Albert and Gisborne Streets. The land on which the Cathedral and associated buildings are located was acquired by the Catholic Church in 1848. The foundation stone for the first church building was laid by Bishop Goold in 1850. The influx of population resulting from the gold-rush lead to a decision to replace the original building with a larger church.

Before its completion the plans were revised with the resulting French influenced Gothic Revival design by English architect William Wardell, one of the finest examples of its type in the world. The Cathedral was consecrated in 1897, although the three spires were not completed until 1939. The interior of the church features magnificent stained glass windows and elaborate detailing.