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Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned: Gibraltar's Catholic Heart

Discover Gibraltar's Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned: a historic Catholic landmark blending Moorish & Gothic architecture in the heart of Main Street.

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The Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned, located on Main Street in Gibraltar, serves as the primary center of Catholic worship in the Diocese of Gibraltar. Originally a mosque in the 14th century, it was converted to a church in 1462 and has undergone several renovations, reflecting a blend of architectural styles and Gibraltar's rich history.

A brief summary to Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned

Local tips

  • Visit the tranquil Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes, located in the patio, for a moment of quiet contemplation away from the bustling Main Street.
  • Look for the Catholic Monarchs' coat of arms in the cathedral's courtyard, a remnant of the original mosque.
  • Note the blend of architectural styles, reflecting the cathedral's evolution from a mosque to a Gothic church and its subsequent renovations.
  • Check the Cathedral's website or call ahead for mass schedules and special events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned is located on Main Street in the heart of Gibraltar's city center, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Casemates Square, walk south along Main Street; the cathedral will be on your right. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and is mostly flat. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes operate along Main Street. The Gibraltar Bus Company and Calypso Transport both have services that stop near the cathedral. From the Gibraltar International Airport or the frontier with Spain, take the Route 5 bus towards the city center. Alight at a stop on Main Street near John Mackintosh Square and walk a short distance south. A single adult fare is approximately £1.60-£1.80. A day hopper ticket allowing unlimited travel is also available for around £6. Exact change or card payment may be required on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar, including at the airport, the border with Spain, and in Casemates Square. A taxi from the airport to the city center will cost approximately £13.60. Taxis can drop you off directly in front of the Cathedral on Main Street. Be aware of potential surcharges for additional passengers or luggage.

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The Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned stands as a symbol of Gibraltar's layered history and enduring Catholic faith. Situated on Main Street, its origins trace back to a 14th-century Marinid mosque. Following the Christian reconquest in 1462, the mosque was transformed into a church, Santa Maria la Coronada y San Bernardo. Under the Catholic Monarchs, the building was replaced with a Gothic-style church, incorporating the mosque's courtyard, where their coat of arms remains visible. The cathedral suffered significant damage during the Great Siege of 1779-1783. In 1790, Governor Sir Robert Boyd offered to rebuild the cathedral, rerouting Main Street through part of the original site. Reconstruction occurred in the early 19th century, including the construction of the clock tower. The west facade was updated in 1931. The interior features a blend of architectural styles, with beautifully crafted wooden altars, stained glass windows, and intricate frescoes. The marble backdrop to the high altar has an interesting history: originally destined for South America, the ship carrying it sank in the harbor, and the Arengo family installed it in the Cathedral as their family altar. The crypt beneath the statue of Our Lady of Europe serves as the burial place for modern bishops, while earlier bishops and other residents were buried under the cathedral floor until the 19th century. Today, the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned remains an active center of worship and a significant landmark in Gibraltar, open daily to visitors. Its blend of architectural styles, historical significance, and serene atmosphere make it a must-see destination.

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