Religious, Spiritual sights in Sydney
- Sort by:
- Popular
-
A
St Andrew’s Cathedral
Sporting beautiful stained glass and twin spires inspired by England’s York Minster, squat St Andrew’s Anglican is the oldest cathedral in Australia (1868). Music is a big deal here: free organ recitals happen on Fridays at 1.10pm and a concert band performs on Wednesdays at 12.30pm. During school terms ‘Young Music’ concerts happen at 12.30pm on Mondays and 1.10pm on Thursdays. The St Andy’s choir warbles on Wednesdays at 8am, Thursdays at 5.30pm and Sundays at 10.30am. Despite some ugly modifications around the front door, disabled access is good. See the website or call for details on services.
reviewed
-
B
St Patrick’s Church
Australia’s busiest Catholic church (1844) was built on land donated by William Davis, an Irishman transported for his role in the 1798 uprisings. His home (on the site of the chapel-turned-cafe) was arguably the first Catholic chapel in Australia; it was used for clandestine devotions after the colony’s only Catholic priest was deported in 1818. Inside it’s incredibly quiet, which makes the brass altar, the stained glass windows and the colourful statues of St Patrick, St Joan of Arc and St Michael (complete with dragon) seem even more pious. Guided tours are infrequent but worthwhile.
reviewed
-
C
Sze Yup Temple
This humble backstreet temple was opened in 1898 by immigrants from the Sze Yup area of China. It’s dedicated to 3rd-century folk hero Kwan Ti, whose embroidered, green-robed image, flanked by two guards, takes centre stage on the altar. Known for his loyalty, physical prowess and masculinity, he is looked to by supplicants as a wise judge, guide and protector. At Chinese New Year it’s a hectic place: kids’ laughter in the forecourt is offset by solemn offerings of incense and fruit at the altar. Respectful visitors are welcome (take your shoes off before entering).
reviewed
-
D
St John’s Church
Grab a pamphlet inside this lovely sandstone church (1858) for an interesting 10-minute, self-guided tour. It makes a hushed escape from the urban jangle of Darlinghurst Rd and the car wash next door. The Anglican congregation runs the Rough Edges Community Centre, working with the area’s many homeless.
reviewed
-
E
Christ Church St Lawrence
Step off Sydney’s main drag into this calming 1845 sandstone church. Check the thickness of your moral fibre before George St lures you into a saucy stew of sex clubs and porn shops.
reviewed
