Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria

Like so many of the majestic cathedrals of old, Christ Church Cathedral took over a century to construct and has evolved dramatically from its original conception. This edifice is none other than the third Cathedral Church, proudly standing as the seat of the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of British Columbia. It replaced two previous structures that once graced the opposite side of the road, now home to the Law Courts building. The old cathedral property may have been sold to the province for the courthouse, but the Cathedral Close still occupies an entire city block, encompassing Quadra, Rockland, Vancouver, and Burdett.

The architect Keith himself called the cathedral Gothic Revival, acknowledging the immense influence of medieval English cathedrals. The design is steeped in tradition, with the visual emphasis placed on the grand West End, which majestically towers over "Church Hill," boasting its prominence for miles around.

A grand entrance awaits worshippers, beckoning them to enter through six sets of double doors, which lead through a vestibule, also known as the narthex, into the vast and sprawling nave. At the east end, facing Jerusalem, lies the resplendent sanctuary. The finished nave is one of the largest in all of Canada, spanning a breathtaking 93 feet by 140 feet. Medieval-style texts grace the interior walls, transporting visitors to a time long gone, while other texts are artfully cast in a ribbon around the top of the walls outside, paying homage to the grandeur of this magnificent cathedral.

Why You Should Visit:
For Gothic architecture, this is really a beautiful structure – with flying buttresses, beautiful beams, and gorgeous stained glass – surrounded by impeccably manicured grounds and the peaceful cemetery.
A delightful labyrinth graces the side of the building, inviting visitors to embark on a spiritual journey of self-discovery.

Tip:
Upon arrival, kindly ask the knowledgeable stewart on duty for the complimentary self-guided tour pamphlet to fully appreciate the building's historical and architectural significance. If you are especially gracious and polite, the stewart may even unlock the door to the Columbarium. The Cathedral is also known as a frequent venue for concerts and recitals, so check their schedule.