Saint Stephen’s

Is this hallowed ground? The Cathedral of St Stephen stands before us, a testament to faith and history in the heart of Brisbane. While it might have been intended as a temporary seat for the Archbishop, the Cathedral of St Stephen has graced this site since 1874. It’s fascinating how plans for a grander replacement, the Holy Name Cathedral, never came to fruition. This magnificent structure we see today, with its Gothic Revival style and soaring spires, is the result of a fascinating evolution in design and ambition. The original architect, Benjamin Backhouse, laid the groundwork, but it was the firm of Hennessy, Hennessy & Co who brought the final vision to life in the 1920s, adding the transepts and sanctuary. But the story doesn’t end there! The cathedral underwent major renovations in the 1980s to preserve its historical fabric while adapting to modern needs. Imagine the undertaking – it involved even installing an underground carpark beneath the extended east end! Look closely at the magnificent stained-glass windows. They bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors and tell stories of Jesus’s life. These beautiful windows, sourced from artists across Europe and Australia, truly are a treasure to behold. The Cathedral of St Stephen is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living chronicle of Brisbane’s history, a place where generations have come to celebrate, to mourn, and to find solace within its sacred walls.