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Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned: A Gibraltar Landmark

Discover Gibraltar's main Catholic cathedral, a historic site with roots as a mosque, located in the heart of Main Street.

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The Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned, located on Main Street in Gibraltar, is the primary Roman Catholic church of the Diocese of Gibraltar. Originally a mosque in the 14th century, it was converted to a church in 1462 and has undergone several renovations, blending Gothic and Neoclassical architectural styles. Its long history and central location make it a must-see historical and religious site.

A brief summary to Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Check the schedule for special services or events to experience local traditions.
  • Explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful retreat and views.
  • Note the opening hours, as they may vary, especially on weekends.
  • Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned is located on Main Street, Gibraltar. From Casemates Square, walk south along Main Street. The cathedral will be on your right-hand side after approximately a 5-minute walk. There are no costs involved in this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes service Main Street. Take any bus that stops near the city center or Cathedral Square. From the bus stop, the cathedral is a short walk. A single bus ticket costs around £2.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. Ask the driver to take you to the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned on Main Street. A short taxi ride within the city center will likely cost between £5-£10.

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Discover more about Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned

The Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned stands as a symbol of Gibraltar's layered history, originally built on the site of a mosque. Converted after the Christian reconquest in 1462, the Catholic Monarchs ordered the mosque to be stripped of its Islamic elements and consecrated as a church. They named it Santa Maria la Coronada y San Bernardo. The cathedral's courtyard still contains the Catholic Monarchs' coat of arms. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone significant changes. Severely damaged during the Great Siege of 1779-1783, it was partially rebuilt in 1790 when the governor offered assistance in exchange for land to reroute Main Street. Further reconstruction occurred in 1810, including widening Main Street, and a clock tower was added in 1820. The west facade was updated in 1931. The interior features a marble backdrop to the high altar and stained glass windows. A crypt beneath the statue of Our Lady of Europe holds the remains of past bishops. Today, the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned remains an active place of worship and a significant landmark in the heart of Gibraltar.

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