St. Michael’s Cathedral, Bridgetown : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Nestled in Bridgetown, the charming and vibrant capital of beautiful Barbados, St. Michael’s Cathedral is one of the most majestic and spiritual places in the area. Built in 1825, this neo-Gothic cathedral is the oldest parish church in Barbados, and it still stands strong even after its two repairs in the 1800s. It has been a frequent stop of travelers heading to Bridgetown, who come to experience its grandeur and take in its fascinating history, architecture, and artwork. In this blog, we will explore some of the interesting facts, information, and travel guide relating to St. Michael’s Cathedral. Get ready to discover the incredible treasures hidden within this church!

Interesting Facts About St. Michael’s Cathedral, Bridgetown

1. St. Michael’s Cathedral is the only Anglican church of its kind in Barbados. It was constructed in 1628 and is also the oldest existing Anglican church in the Caribbean.

2. The Cathedral was the setting for the first coronation of an independent Governor of Barbados in 1966, held to commemorate the nation’s 300th anniversary.

3. Visitors to the Cathedral can see a monument dedicated to Admiral Sir George Brydges Rodney, who was instrumental in defeating the French in the Battle of the Saints.

4. The Cathedral contains many notable artifacts, including the original leather-bound baptismal font and silver chalice used by the first churchgoers.

5. In 1989, the Cathedral was awarded the Barbados Gold Star, an honour bestowed on nationally or regionally important historic sites.

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History & Information About St. Michael’s Cathedral, Bridgetown

St. Michael’s Cathedral, located in Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, is the oldest Anglican church in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere. Built in 1665, the Cathedral replaced an original church dating back to 1628 and was constructed on the site of a Jewish synagogue. The current structure was designed by two Welsh architects, Henry Gauntlett and Abraham Castell, with construction overseen by Master Mason Thomas Jarvis, who went on to become Governor of Barbados. The building is known for its distinctive tower, which was built in 1789, and for the French stained glass windows installed in 1886.

The church is also home to a number of notable features, including original paintings from the early 1800s and a number of exquisite pieces of silverwork, crafted by renowned silver smith Thomas Beale. The church contains a replica of the 16th century silver font used for the christening of Queen Victoria in 1819 at St. James’s Palace, and also houses two tombs belonging to Neville and Bridget Gordon, who were prominent plantation owners.

St. Michael’s Cathedral has long been a major religious landmark in Barbados, and it serves as the seat of the Anglican Diocese of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. The church is also a popular tourist attraction, attracting people from all over the world to view its architectural splendour. It is particularly popular for weddings and other such special occasions, and is the host site of the annual Christmas services.

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Travel Guide For Visiting St. Michael’s Cathedral, Bridgetown

Welcome to Bridgetown, Barbabdos! St. Michael’s Cathedral is one of the main attractions in the city. This magnificent building is the largest Anglican cathedral in the Caribbean and has stood for over two hundred years serving both religious and cultural purposes in Bridgetown. If you plan on visiting the cathedral, here is a guide that will help you make the most out of your visit.

When To Visit:

St. Michael’s Cathedral opens from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Monday to Friday. Sunday services are from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. The cathedral is closed on Saturday.

What To Do:

The cathedral is a house of worship and reverence, so silence and respect should be expected at all times. Inside the cathedral, you will find magnificent stained glass windows, a wooden pulpit, ornate silver communion platters, and a pipe organ. Guided tours are available and can be arranged at least two days in advance.

What To See:

Some of the notable features of St. Michael’s Cathedral are a large statue of Jesus Christ, an intricately carved tomb featuring the bones and symbols of St. Michael the Archangel. The cathedral is also home to several paintings, relics, and sculptures by local and international artists. The Cathedral is surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful courtyards where visitors can find a moment of solace.

Nearby Attractions:

Several other attractions are close to St. Michael’s Cathedral. There are multiple restaurants in the area for visitors to enjoy local flavors, as well as shopping opportunities in many of the local boutiques and craft shops. Colonial-era buildings and monuments are easily accessible from the cathedral. There are also several art galleries, museums, and parks located nearby.

St. Michael’s Cathedral is a beautiful and serene place to explore and admire. Whether it’s for a few hours or a full day, the time spent in this gorgeous building will be well worth it. Be sure to plan ahead and take advantage of everything the cathedral has to offer. Enjoy your visit to St. Michael’s Cathedral!

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Frequently Asked Questions About St. Michael’s Cathedral, Bridgetown

Q: Where is St. Michael’s Cathedral located?
A: St. Michael’s Cathedral is located in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Q: What is the Mass Schedule for St. Michael’s Cathedral?
A: Mass times for St. Michael’s Cathedral are Monday through Friday at 7am, 9:15am and 5:30pm. On Saturdays a Mass is held at 9:15am while on Sundays Masses are held at 7am, 9:15am and 5:15pm.

Q: When was St. Michael’s Cathedral built?
A: St. Michael’s Cathedral was built in the late 17th century, having been consecrated in 1665.

Q: Is there a noted history to the St. Michael’s Cathedral?
A: Yes, St. Michael’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican church in the world outside of Great Britain and possesses a rich history of Barbadian establishment. The Cathedral has not only hosted countless important political and religious events, but it is also one of the few Barbadian icons to survive multiple natural disasters.

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