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St Peter's Cathedral: A Gothic Revival Masterpiece

Discover Adelaide's iconic St Peter's Cathedral: a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, rich history, and vibrant community at the heart of North Adelaide.

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St Peter's Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral in North Adelaide, stands as a significant landmark and a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture. Founded in 1869, its towering spires and intricate design reflect a blend of English and French Gothic influences, making it a must-see cultural and historical site.

A brief summary to St Peter's Cathedral

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the cathedral's history, architecture, and religious significance. Tours are available on Wednesdays and Sundays.
  • Attend a service or concert to experience the cathedral's beautiful music and acoustics. Check the cathedral's website for the schedule.
  • Visit the gift shop for books, CDs, and religious items to remember your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding area of North Adelaide, including the Adelaide Oval and O'Connell Street's dining precinct.
  • Note the changing colors on the ceiling inside the Cathedral, which marks the end of the first stage of construction in 1877.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Adelaide city center, head north on King William Street. Continue as it becomes King William Road. St Peter's Cathedral is located at 27 King William Road, on the left. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes about 20 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Adelaide Central Bus Station, take bus number 100 or 101 towards North Adelaide. Alight at the 'King William Road - North Adelaide' stop. Walk north along King William Road for 300 meters; the Cathedral will be on the right. Alternatively, from Adelaide Railway Station, take the Glenelg Tram to Victoria Square. Walk north along King William Street/Road for approximately 1km. A single bus fare is approximately $5. A tram ride to Victoria Square is also approximately $5.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From the Adelaide city center, a taxi or ride-share to St Peter's Cathedral takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $7-$10. There are designated drop-off points near the cathedral entrance.

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Discover more about St Peter's Cathedral

St Peter's Cathedral, located in North Adelaide, is a testament to the city's rich religious and architectural heritage. The cathedral serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Adelaide and Metropolitan of the Province of South Australia. Designed in the Gothic Revival style, it was founded in 1869 and built over several decades, with the final touches completed in 1911. The vision of Bishop Augustus Short, the first Anglican bishop of Adelaide, was to create a grand place of worship. The original plans, drawn up by English architect William Butterfield, were later modified by Edward John Woods, incorporating local materials like Tea Tree Gully sandstone and Glen Osmond stone. The cathedral's design is reminiscent of the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, particularly in its south-facing architecture and rose window. The interior features vaulted ceilings, pointed arches, and stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes and South Australian history. The Great West Window, installed in 1890, portrays Christ in Majesty. The cathedral also houses a significant pipe organ, initially built in 1877 and replaced in 1929, which continues to be a central part of the cathedral's musical tradition. The reredos behind the high altar, carved from English oak, displays Christ seated in glory. St Peter's Cathedral is more than just a building; it's a community hub that welcomes people of all backgrounds. Regular services, including choral evensong and Eucharist, are held in a reverent atmosphere. The cathedral also hosts significant events, including concerts by the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and memorial services. The ringing of the cathedral's bells, the heaviest ring of eight in the southern hemisphere, marks important celebrations and moments of mourning. Visitors can explore the cathedral through guided tours, which detail its history, architecture, and religious significance. The gift shop offers books, music, and religious items. With its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, St Peter's Cathedral remains an iconic landmark and a must-see destination in Adelaide.

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