St. Mary's Cathedral, Kingston (must see)

Saint Mary's Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception, forms a trio of significant churches within a short distance, including Chalmers United Church and Saint Andrew's Presbyterian Church. Saint Mary's is one of Kingston's two cathedrals, the other being the Anglican Saint George's Cathedral on King Street. The architectural vision for Saint Mary's was crafted by James R. Bowes, with construction commencing in 1842 and the cathedral officially opening on October 4, 1848.

In 1889, the cathedral underwent a substantial enlargement designed by Joseph Connolly, enhancing its grandeur and capacity. A striking feature of Saint Mary's Cathedral is its impressive spire, which ascends to a height of 242 feet, making it arguably the tallest structure in Kingston. This towering spire is a notable element of the city's skyline.

Initially, Saint Mary's Cathedral did not feature any stained glass windows. It was only during the renovations led by Archbishop James Vincent Cleary in 1885 that these beautiful windows were added. The stained glass installations contribute significantly to the cathedral's aesthetic and spiritual ambiance, illuminating the interior with vibrant colors and intricate designs that reflect the rich traditions of the Catholic faith.