The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Liverpool. The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool and is the largest Catholic church in England. It was opened in 1967 and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. Here are some interesting facts about the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.
History of the Cathedral
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd, a renowned British architect. Construction of the cathedral began in 1962 and was completed in 1967. The cathedral is built in a modernist style and features an octagonal shape with a central tower. It is the first post-war cathedral to be built in England and the first Catholic cathedral to be built in the United Kingdom since the Reformation.
Architecture
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is constructed of reinforced concrete and steel, with a brick and glass exterior. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with marble, mosaics, and stained glass. The central tower is 180 feet tall and contains 13 bells. The cathedral also features a striking bronze sculpture of Christ the King, which was created by sculptor Sir Jacob Epstein.
Notable Features
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral features several notable features, including the following:
- The Great West Door: This is the main entrance to the cathedral and is adorned with a bronze sculpture of Christ the King.
- The Lady Chapel: This is the smallest chapel in the cathedral and features a bronze statue of the Virgin Mary.
- The Crypt: This is the largest part of the cathedral and contains several chapels, the tombs of bishops, and a large collection of religious artifacts.
- The Bell Tower: This is the tallest part of the cathedral and contains 13 bells that can be heard throughout the city.
Events
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and lectures. It is also a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions.
Mass Times
The cathedral holds regular masses throughout the week. Mass times can be found on the cathedral’s website.
Visiting the Cathedral
The Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is open to the public daily from 8am to 5pm. Admission is free, and guided tours are available. The cathedral also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for children.