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This outstanding Gothic cathedral is the largest cathedral
outside Melbourne and reputedly the last Early Gothic style cathedral
built in the world.
It was designed by the architect W Tappin in 1887.
Construction of this cathedral began in 1896 and continued until
1908 before lapsing through lack of funds until 1954 when work recommenced.
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It
was completed in 1977. Dominating the Bendigo skyline,
it is built of Geelong sandstone and the tallest spire is 86.6 metres
with the bronze cross at its apex weighing 3 tonnes and standing
7 metres. |
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Australian
blackwood was used to build the pews and Sicilian marble
was used for the sanctuary walls.
The stained-glass window on the western wall was
made in Birmingham. It is 21m long.
The eagle lectern was donated by George Lansell
who also built Fortuna Villa. |
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Find
it on the Corner of
High & Wattle Streets Bendigo
You can't miss it when you come into Bendigo!
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Though
construction on the Cathedral itself was completed in 1977,
the Cathedral's bells were only completed and delivered on September
13, 2001.
Molded from bronze in Annecy le Vieux, France, there are 5 bells in all, the largest of which weighs around 1 1/4
tons, and gradually work down in size, and weight from there. |
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The bells themselves generate a traditional 'European Peal
Sound', which is the usual deep 'dong' you hear from most large
churches and cathedrals.
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The five bells were blessed by the Cardinal in a ceremony
on September 16, and installed soon after in 1 day. They were rung
for the first time officially on September 30, 2001 and can now be
heard ringing regularly. |
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