Did you know that a piece of Italy resides here in Edinburgh? St Peter’s Church might just surprise you.
St Peter’s Church stands as a testament to faith and artistic vision in Morningside. Its story begins with Canon John Gray and Marc-André Raffalovitch. Raffalovitch, a wealthy patron, supported Gray’s dream. Gray, once a librarian, became a priest and envisioned a new parish.
In 1905, Archbishop James Smith appointed Father Gray to lead the new parish of St Peter’s. Gray then commissioned Sir Robert Lorimer to design the church. Lorimer started construction in 1906. By April 25, 1907, St Peter’s Church opened its doors.
Lorimer, later knighted, extended the nave in 1928. The expansion completed in 1929, adding to the church’s grandeur.
St Peter’s boasts an Italianate style with a tall, square campanile. Its white-washed brick nave is illuminated by six tall windows. The church’s architecture evokes the spirit of the Italian Renaissance. Many describe it as reminiscent of the banks of Lake Garda.
Inside St Peter’s, the artistic details are captivating. Joseph Hayes created the sculpture on the apse of “The Crucifixion”. Morris and Gertrude Alice Meredith Williams contributed stained glass artistry. Nina Millar Davidson and Francoise Pierre Fourmaintraux also added their artistic touch. George Percy Bankart designed the lead font, featuring a distinctive fish motif.
The church’s interior saw changes after the Second Vatican Council. Some of Lorimer’s original furniture was removed. The cast-iron altar rails with fish motifs disappeared. The marble altar was almost entirely lost.
Today, St Peter’s Church remains an active parish. Sunday Mass is held at 11:30 am. Weekday Masses or Liturgy of the Word take place at 9 am. St Peter’s is part of a cluster of parishes working together since 2017.
Michael TRB Turnbull’s book “St Peter’s Edinburgh” explores the church’s history. Phyllida Shaw, an expert on St Peter’s art, authored a biography on Alice Meredith Williams.
So, as you stand before St Peter’s Church, remember its blend of faith, art, and history. It is a unique corner of Edinburgh. A little piece of Italy nestled in Morningside.