Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria (must see)

Like so many of the world’s cathedrals, this building took a century to construct and is vastly different from the original conception.

This is the third Cathedral Church, the seat of the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of British Columbia, replacing two earlier buildings that stood across the road where the Law Courts building now stands. The old cathedral property was eventually sold to the province for the courthouse, but the Cathedral Close still comprises an entire city block-Quadra, Rockland, Vancouver, Burdett.

The architect Keith himself called the cathedral Gothic Revival, acknowledging a debt to medieval English cathedrals. The style is highly traditional, with the visual emphasis being on the imposing West End, towering over “Church Hill,” intended to be visible for miles. Worshippers enter through six sets of double doors, leading through a vestibule (the narthex) into the vast nave, with a sanctuary at the East end, facing Jerusalem. The nave, as finished, is one of the largest in Canada, at 93’ x 140’. Medieval-style texts are painted on interior walls, and other texts are cast in a ribbon around the top of the walls outside.

Why You Should Visit:
For gothic architecture, this is really a beautiful structure – flying buttresses, beautiful beams, and gorgeous stained glass.
Surrounded by the splendor of well-kept grounds and cemetery. There is even a labyrinth on the side of the building.

Tip:
Ask the stewart on duty for the free self-guided tour pamphlet. If you ask nicely, the stewart will also open the Columbarium for you.
The cathedral is known as a frequent venue for concerts and recitals, so check their schedule.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8:30am-5:30pm