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Church · Christchurch, Canterbury
Cardboard Cathedral (Transitional Cathedral)
Provisional Anglican cathedral designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban and opened in 2013, with a structure of large cardboard tubes, near Latimer Square. It replaces the stone cathedral damaged in 2011.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cardboard Cathedral (Transitional Cathedral)
The Cardboard Cathedral, officially called the Transitional Cathedral, was built to replace the Anglican cathedral in Cathedral Square, which was heavily damaged by the February 2011 earthquake. Designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, known for using cardboard tubes in emergency buildings, it opened in August 2013.
The building is A-shaped, with the roof supported by large clad cardboard tubes, combined with timber, steel and a polycarbonate roof that lets light through. On the façade, a triangular stained-glass window reproduces images of the rose window from the old cathedral.
The church operates normally, holding services, concerts and visits. It is a few blocks from Cathedral Square, opposite Latimer Square, and nearby is the memorial to the 185 earthquake victims: a group of empty white chairs that commemorates those who died.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
During the day, when light passes through the roof and the stained window. Avoid service times.
How to get there
It is on Hereford Street, opposite Latimer Square, about a 10-minute walk from Cathedral Square.
Tip
Visits are open to the public outside service times; a donation is welcome. On the same corner is the white chairs memorial.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cardboard Cathedral (Transitional Cathedral)
Is the Cardboard Cathedral really made of cardboard?
The roof structure uses large covered cardboard tubes, combined with timber, steel and polycarbonate. The project was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban.
Where is the Cardboard Cathedral located?
On Hereford Street, opposite Latimer Square, in central Christchurch.
Why does Christchurch have a Cardboard Cathedral?
To replace the stone cathedral on Cathedral Square, which was severely damaged in the February 2011 earthquake. It opened in 2013.