When immigrants first arrived in New Zealand they brought their beliefs. Most of the first settlers were Christians. The second church built in Wellington, in 1855, still stands today and is a great historic site. This self-guided tour will help you explore the churches and other religious monuments of Wellington.
1) Old St. Paul's Church
Old St. Paul's used to be the cathedral of the Diocese of Wellington of the Anglican Church in New Zealand. It represents the 19th-century Gothic Revival style and it was made from local timber. Inside you will see stunning stained glass windows and walls decorated with memorial plaques. Now the church is an important historic place in Wellington.
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2) Wellington Cathedral of St Paul
The Wellington Cathedral of St Paul is one of the most spectacular churches in Wellington. It is the cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of Wellington. There is the wooden Lady Chapel, however the cathedral itself is made of concrete. The design of the church was inspired from the descriptions in the Bible.
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3) Sacred Heart Cathedral
The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is considered a historic place of great importance. It is a Roman Catholic cathedral that dominates the landscape of this part of the city. The cathedral was built according to the classical basilica style. There are ionic columns, aisles, a nave, and a large arch.
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4) St Mary of the Angels
St Mary of the Angels is another Catholic church, serving the population around the center of the city. This church is categorized as a historic and cultural heritage site of Wellington. The design of the Cathedral is influenced by the French style of Gothic churches. The windows depict Bible scenes which are enhanced by the beauty of the stained glass.
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5) St Peter's Anglican Church
St Peter's Anglican Church was built in 1848. Its highlight is stained glass windows. The church was built from local timber in the Gothic Revival style. It is marked by a corner spire. This big wooden church is a prominent landmark in the inner city of Wellington.
6) Greek Orthodox Cathedral
The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, located on Mount Victoria, is one of the very few Greek Orthodox churches in Wellington. The church is not very big, but is nevertheless a very distinctive landmark. This is a new church with a domed roof common for orthodox churches.
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7) Saint Gerard's Catholic Church and Monastery
Saint Gerard's Catholic Church and Monastery dates back to the 19th century. It is a Gothic church and monastery that is of great historic and architectural interest. There are valuable historic objects in the church, such as the Swan's altar and also splendid stained glass windows. You can see the rich red brickwork, which glows when it is dark and makes the church a prominent site on Mount Victoria.
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