The Christchurch Cathedral, situated in the heart of the City of Christchurch, has been a symbol of beauty and culture in the city since its completion in 1881. Through its significant and complex history, it has played an important role in the lives of the citizens of Christchurch. It has been witness to various events, from the devastation of the Great Earthquake of 2011 to its eventual resurrection in 2018.
The Christchurch Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, was built from 1864-1881 and was designed in the Gothic Revival style of architecture by English-born New Zealand architect Francis Petre. The Cathedral was designed as a memorial to Bishop Henry John Chitty Harper and was consecrated in 1904.
The Great Earthquake of 2011
On February 22, 2011, the Christchurch Cathedral suffered extensive damage when a devastating earthquake, known locally as “The Great Quake of 2011”, struck the city, resulting in the deaths of 185 people. In the aftermath of the disaster, the Cathedral was severely damaged, with the tower and spire collapsing into the nave, the interior being heavily damaged, and the stained glass windows and crypt being destroyed.
The impact of the earthquake on the Cathedral was devastating. However, the people of Christchurch rallied together and worked hard to begin the rebuilding process. There was a huge restoration project that involved hundreds of volunteers and skilled workers, ensuring that the Cathedral would be restored to its former glory.
Restoration Process
In 2014, the restoration process began in earnest, with the first step being the deconstruction of the damaged Cathedral and the erection of a new building. The salvaged stone and timber were used to construct a temporary structure, known as the Cardboard Cathedral, which served as a place of worship in the absence of the Christchruch Cathedral.
From there, the project eventually began to focus on restoring the Cathedral to its original state. The restoration process was completed in 2018 and the Cathedral has since been open to the public, as well as becoming a popular tourist attraction.
Re-Opening of the Cathedral
The Cathedral was officially re-opened on August 14, 2018 during a special ceremony, with the Archbishop of New Zealand presiding. This event marked a new era for the Cathedral and for the citizens of Christchurch, who had finally seen the restoration of their beloved Cathedral.
The re-opening of the Cathedral was a momentous occasion and one that was marked with a special celebration. During the ceremony, the Archbishop of New Zealand gave a speech praising the strength and resilience of the people of Christchurch, who had worked tirelessly to restore the Cathedral to its former glory. Souvenirs were also given out to commemorate the occasion, and a special Mass was held in honor of the official re-opening.
Since then, the Cathedral has become a symbol of hope and resilience, sought after by locals and tourists alike. Its history and its significance have made it an integral part of the city’s culture and heritage.
What You Can Do at the Christchurch Cathedral
The Cathedral is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with a range of activities and attractions available for visitors. Here are some of the things that you can do when visiting the Cathedral:
- Enjoy the Beauty: The Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, making it a great place to admire the beauty of the building.
- Explore the Crypt: The Crypt is a fascinating area of the Cathedral and has been described by visitors as “an amazing part of history”. It is well worth a visit.
- Attend a Concert: The Cathedral hosts a range of performances, ranging from classical concerts to contemporary music.
- Take a Tour: For a more in-depth experience, take one of the guided tours of the Cathedral and learn more about its history and heritage.
The Christchurch Cathedral is a beautiful and iconic building that holds a prominent place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its history, its symbolism, and its grandeur make it an essential part of the Christchurch experience.