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St Francis Xavier's Cathedral: Adelaide's Gothic Masterpiece
Discover Adelaide's iconic St Francis Xavier's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and a spiritual haven.
St Francis Xavier's Cathedral, a Roman Catholic cathedral in Adelaide, stands as a testament to Gothic Revival architecture. Its construction, beginning in 1856 and spanning over a century, showcases the dedication of Adelaide's Catholic community. The cathedral is the oldest of its kind in Australia.
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A brief summary to St Francis Xavier's Cathedral
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Walking
St Francis Xavier's Cathedral is located in the city center, on Wakefield Street, near Victoria Square. From the Adelaide Convention Centre, it's approximately a 1.4km walk. Head southeast on King William Road, then turn left onto Wakefield Street. The cathedral will be on your left.
Public Transport
The cathedral is easily accessible by public transport. From the Adelaide Convention Centre, take the tram from Adelaide Railway Station to Victoria Square. The cathedral is a short walk from the Victoria Square tram stop. Alternatively, several bus routes stop near the cathedral, including routes 174, 190, 208, 230, and 720. A single trip on public transport costs around $5.
Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Adelaide. A taxi ride from the Adelaide Convention Centre to St Francis Xavier's Cathedral typically takes only a few minutes. Expect to pay between $8 and $11 for the trip. Keep in mind that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
Parking
If driving, limited street parking is available near the cathedral. Alternatively, paid parking is available at the Wilson Car Park on Hindley Street, a short walk from the cathedral. Daily parking rates vary. Some parking lots offer early bird and evening rates. There are also two designated wheelchair accessible parking spaces on the grounds of the Cathedral.
Local tips
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Photography is not permitted during services to maintain a respectful environment.
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Visit during lunchtime organ recitals for a unique experience with the cathedral's Casavant Frères pipe organ.
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Take a moment to admire the stained-glass windows and the statues of St John the Baptist and St Patrick.
Discover more about St Francis Xavier's Cathedral
St Francis Xavier's Cathedral, located on Wakefield Street in Adelaide, is the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Adelaide. It is the oldest Catholic cathedral in Australia. Dedicated to the 16th-century Spanish Jesuit missionary saint, Francis Xavier, the cathedral's history is intertwined with the growth of Catholicism in South Australia.
The cathedral's construction began in 1856, with the foundation stone laid by Father Michael Ryan. The first stage was completed and consecrated in 1858. However, the vision for the cathedral evolved over time, leading to numerous expansions and revisions. The tower, a prominent feature of the cathedral, was not completed until 1996.
The architectural style is Gothic Revival, reminiscent of Early English Gothic architecture. Key features include the 36-meter high tower, lancet arches, rose window, and stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes. Inside, visitors can admire statues of St John the Baptist, carved in Tuscany, and the Lady Chapel altar made of Carrara marble.
Throughout its history, St Francis Xavier's Cathedral has served as a central hub for Adelaide's Catholic community, hosting daily masses, weddings, funerals, and other religious ceremonies. It also holds cultural significance, hosting concerts and events.
A brief summary to St Francis Xavier's Cathedral
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