Sydney has produced many famous sinners but this museum tells the life story of St Mary of the Cross (aka Mary MacKillop), Australia’s only Catholic saint. Born in Melbourne in 1842, she was a dedicated, outspoken educator who prevailed over conservative hierarchical ideals, despite a brief excommunication. You’ll find her tomb inside the chapel. The museum has interesting interactive displays and a kookily whimsical Nuns on the Run automaton, proving that the Josephites (the order that MacKillop founded) have a sense of humour.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Sydney attractions

1. Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

0.39 MILES

On the shore of Lavender Bay, this is one of Sydney's hidden treasures. The public garden was created by artist Brett Whiteley's widow (an artist herself)…

2. McMahons Point

0.71 MILES

Is there a better view of the bridge and the Opera House than from the wharf at this point, a short hop by ferry northwest of the centre? It's all…

3. Luna Park

0.73 MILES

A sinister chip-toothed clown face (50 times life-sized) forms the entrance to this old-fashioned amusement park overlooking Sydney Harbour. It's one of…

4. Balls Head Reserve

0.77 MILES

Scruffy, bushy Balls Head Reserve not only has great views of the harbour, the city skyline and the industrial relics on Goat Island, it also has a wiggly…

6. May Gibbs’ Nutcote

0.98 MILES

Beautiful harbourside Nutcote (1925) is the former home of author and illustrator May Gibbs (1877–1969), who wrote the much-loved Australian children’s…

7. Kirribilli

1.01 MILES

The Sydney residences of Australia’s governor general and prime minister are located on Kirribilli Point, east of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. When in town,…

8. Sydney Harbour Bridge

1.04 MILES

Sydneysiders love their giant 'coathanger', which opened in 1932. The best way to experience this majestic structure is on foot. Stairs and lifts ascend…