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Christchurch Cathedral Review
Read our Christchurch and Canterbury sights reviews. Or post your own.
Christchurch Cathedral
- Address: The Sq., Christchurch
- Phone: 03/366-0046
- www.christchurchcathedral.co.nz
- Category: Religious Sites
- Location: Christchurch
Fodor's Review:
The city's dominating landmark was begun in 1864, 14 years after the arrival of the Canterbury Pilgrims. Though consecrated in 1881, it wasn't completed until 1904. Carvings inside commemorate the work of the Anglican missionaries, including Tamihana Te Rauparaha, the son of a fierce and, for the settlers, troublesome Maori chief. Free guided tours begin daily at 11 and 2. For a view across the city to the Southern Alps, climb the 133 steps to the top of the bell tower. The cathedral is known for its boys' choir, which can be heard singing evensong at 5:15 on Tuesday and Wednesday and at 4:30 on Friday. Men's Evensong happens every Thursday at 5:15. Cathedral Square, the city's focal point, buzzes with an arts-and-crafts market on Thursday and Friday, complete with food stalls and street musicians. Gradual upgrades of the Square have been pursued since 1991, including a giant chessboard and the huge, shiny Chalice sculpture, created by local artist Neil Dawson.
- Cost: Tower $4, tour $3
- Open: Oct.-Mar., daily 8:30-7; Apr.-Sept., daily 9-5
Get Advice From Other Travelers
- Day trip: Canterbury/Dover or Cambridge
15 responses; most recent on 08/25/2008, 02:13 pm - Christchurch hotel - George, Crowne Plaza, Millennium, other?
8 responses; most recent on 08/05/2008, 01:03 pm
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