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Church · Liverpool, Inglaterra
Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
The circular Catholic cathedral of 1967 at the northern end of Hope Street, with a lantern tower of colorful stained glass in the shape of a crown above the altar, built over the crypt of an earlier design.
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 Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King is the Catholic cathedral of Liverpool, at the northern end of Hope Street. The original 1930s design by Edwin Lutyens envisaged one of the largest churches in the world, but only the crypt was built before World War II and costs halted the project. In the 1960s a competition selected Frederick Gibberd's modern design, and the present cathedral was consecrated in 1967.
The building is circular, with the altar at the centre and seating around it so everyone is close to the celebration, as called for by the Second Vatican Council. Above, a lantern tower of colourful stained glass by John Piper and Patrick Reyntiens, in the shape of a crown, bathes the altar in blue, red and yellow light. Around the circle are chapels with modern works of art. Because of its shape, locals nicknamed the cathedral 'Paddy's Tent' in jest.
Lutyens' crypt, of brick and granite with huge vaults, can be visited at certain times and shows the scale of the project that was never completed. A model of the original design is in the Museum of Liverpool.
Entry to the cathedral is usually free, with a suggested donation. Broad steps link the front of the cathedral to Hope Street.
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
30 minutes to 1 hour, including the crypt.
Best time
On a sunny day, when light passes through the tower's stained glass and colours the interior. Check the times for the crypt and for services.
How to get there
It's on Mount Pleasant at the northern end of Hope Street, about a 15-minute walk from Lime Street station and 1 km from the Anglican cathedral.
Tip
Visit both cathedrals on the same walk along Hope Street, which has restaurants, the Philharmonic Hall and the Philharmonic Dining Rooms pub with its Victorian interior.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
Why is the Catholic cathedral round?
The 1960s design placed the altar at the centre, with the pews around it, following liturgical changes from the Second Vatican Council.
What is Lutyens' crypt?
The part built of the original 1930s design, which would have been one of the largest churches in the world and was never completed.
Does the cathedral charge an entry fee?
It is usually free, with a suggested donation. Check before you go.