St. Mary's Basilica, Invercargill facts for kids
St. Mary's Basilica is a beautiful Catholic Church located in Invercargill, New Zealand. A famous New Zealand architect named Francis Petre designed it. The church first opened its doors in 1905. It is a very important building in Invercargill.
A Special Building
St. Mary's Basilica is known for its unique style of architecture. This style is why it is called a "basilica." The building stands tall, reaching about 37 meters (121 feet) into the sky. This makes it one of the most noticeable buildings in Invercargill. Many people have even called it the "prettiest church in Australasia." It is important to know that while it looks like a basilica, it is not officially a "minor basilica" in the Catholic Church.
Design and Features
Francis Petre was a very skilled architect. He designed many churches in New Zealand. St. Mary's Basilica shows his talent. The church has a grand and impressive look. Its design helps it stand out in the city. The building's height and style make it a true landmark.
Location and History
You can find St. Mary's Basilica on Tyne Street. It is close to other important places in Invercargill. These include St Josephs School, the Otepuni Gardens, and Te Tomairangi Marae. The church is also listed as a Category I Historic Place. This means it is a very important historical site in New Zealand. It is protected because of its special history and architecture.
Serving the Community
The church plays a big role in the local area. It serves the Catholic community in Invercargill. It is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Dunedin. This means it is connected to other Catholic churches and groups in the wider region. St. Mary's Basilica is a place for worship and community gatherings.
