
Saint Paul's Church, Halifax
Saint Paul’s Anglican Church, standing at the heart of Halifax’s Grand Parade, is more than just a house of worship—it’s a cornerstone of the city’s history. Built in 1750, this Georgian-style church is the oldest Anglican Church in North America and the oldest surviving building in Halifax. Its origins date back to the very founding of the city when town planners marked its central location in 1749. The church’s frame—an enduring combination of oak and pine—was precut in Boston and shipped north, ensuring its rapid assembly.
Architecturally, Saint Paul’s is a significant landmark as the first Palladian-style building in Canada. Designed by James Gibbs and modeled after London’s Saint Peter’s Church (circa 1728), it has undergone numerous expansions over the centuries. The church’s present structure includes wings added in the 19th century, making it one of the few Anglican churches worldwide with five aisles.
Beyond its architectural significance, Saint Paul’s has played a vital role in the development of Nova Scotia. Initially serving as the established church for the government and military, it became the cathedral church of the Diocese of Nova Scotia when Charles Inglis was appointed the first Bishop in 1787. The church was also the official place of worship for the garrison until 1844. Many notable figures have been associated with Saint Paul’s, including Governor Edward Cornwallis, Prince Edward (the future Duke of Kent), and several early political and military leaders, some of whom are buried beneath its floors.
The church has borne witness to Halifax’s most defining moments, hosting memorial services for the victims of the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion, and Swissair Flight 111. It remains a focal point for commemorations, royal jubilees, and state occasions, maintaining its legacy as a living, active parish. Recognized as a National Historic Site, Saint Paul’s continues to welcome visitors daily, standing as a testament to Halifax’s past and its enduring spiritual heritage.
Architecturally, Saint Paul’s is a significant landmark as the first Palladian-style building in Canada. Designed by James Gibbs and modeled after London’s Saint Peter’s Church (circa 1728), it has undergone numerous expansions over the centuries. The church’s present structure includes wings added in the 19th century, making it one of the few Anglican churches worldwide with five aisles.
Beyond its architectural significance, Saint Paul’s has played a vital role in the development of Nova Scotia. Initially serving as the established church for the government and military, it became the cathedral church of the Diocese of Nova Scotia when Charles Inglis was appointed the first Bishop in 1787. The church was also the official place of worship for the garrison until 1844. Many notable figures have been associated with Saint Paul’s, including Governor Edward Cornwallis, Prince Edward (the future Duke of Kent), and several early political and military leaders, some of whom are buried beneath its floors.
The church has borne witness to Halifax’s most defining moments, hosting memorial services for the victims of the Titanic, the Halifax Explosion, and Swissair Flight 111. It remains a focal point for commemorations, royal jubilees, and state occasions, maintaining its legacy as a living, active parish. Recognized as a National Historic Site, Saint Paul’s continues to welcome visitors daily, standing as a testament to Halifax’s past and its enduring spiritual heritage.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Halifax. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Saint Paul's Church on Map






Sight Name: Saint Paul's Church
Sight Location: Halifax, Canada (See walking tours in Halifax)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Halifax, Canada (See walking tours in Halifax)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Halifax, Canada
Create Your Own Walk in Halifax
Creating your own self-guided walk in Halifax is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Halifax Historical Buildings
Between the impressive waterfront and colorful, bustling streets, Halifax is a picturesque city. Much of its fascinating history is duly reflected in the local architecture. There are a number of historical landmarks in Halifax, including the time-honored buildings, palaces, and churches, where you can learn much about its glorious past.
The presence of these historical locations is bound to... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
The presence of these historical locations is bound to... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.6 Km or 1 Miles
Halifax Introduction Walking Tour
Halifax is located on the ancestral lands of the Mi'kmaq who lived in the area long before Europeans arrived. Mi'kmaq called the area "Great Harbor". The city itself was established by the British in 1749 in violation of treaties with the Mi'kmaq. The establishment of the city led to Father le Loutre's War, otherwise known as the Anglo-Micmac War.
General Edward... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
General Edward... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles