St Michael’s Church is an iconic attraction and historic hidden gem waiting to be discovered in the heart of Melbourne
Have you ever wandered through a city and stumbled upon a beautiful church that immediately catches your eye? Well, let us introduce you to St. Michael’s Church, a historic and iconic gem nestled in the heart of the Melbourne. This charming church features a treasure trove of history, culture, and beauty – waiting to be explored. As a visitor to the church you can take a tour to learn about the history and architecture, or you can even participate in the ringing of the bells.
St. Michael’s Church was built in the 1800s and has been serving the community ever since. It has survived wars, natural disasters, and the passage of time. Today stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of its community. The church is renowned for its large bell tower, stunning stained-glass windows and intricate wooden carvings.
Events and Tours
However, it’s not just the beauty of the iconic St. Michael’s Church that makes it a must-visit destination. The church is also known for its lively events and activities, from concerts and plays to community picnics and fairs.
One of the highlights of visiting is to take a guided tour of the church. A knowledgeable tour guide will share stories of the church’s history as well as discuss interesting details about the church’s stained-glass windows and other unique features. You’ll be amazed by the attention to detail that went into creating this incredible place of worship.
Another fun activity you can participate in at St. Michael’s is the ‘Ringing of the Bells’ event. Climb the bell tower and see the magnificent view of the town while ringing the bells and experiencing their beautiful chorus.
Gift Shop
In addition to the church itself, there’s also a charming gift shop on the grounds. It’s here that you’ll find a wide variety of unique and handmade items, from jewellery and trinkets to home decor and books. The gift shop is run by local artisans and craftsmen, so you can support the community in addition to picking up a souvenir to remember your visit by.
The history of St. Michael’s Church
St. Michael’s Church was established in 1852, within a couple of decades of the founding of the city. The first St. Michael’s Church was a wooden structure located on the corner of Collins and Russell Streets. It was a modest building, with a capacity of only 500 people. However, it quickly became a hub of activity for the growing population of Melbourne.
As the city continued to expand, the congregation outgrew the original church. Therefore, in 1867, a larger church was constructed on the same site. This new building was designed in the Gothic Revival style and featured stained-glass windows, elaborate stonework, and a soaring bell tower. It was a grand and impressive structure that could accommodate over 1,500 worshippers.
In the 1950s, St. Michael’s Church underwent a major renovation that included an updated interior and the installation of a new altar. These renovations gave the church a more modern look while still retaining its original character.
So, whether you’re a history buff, an architecture aficionado, or just someone looking for a fun day out, St. Michael’s Church is the iconic attraction in the heart of Melbourne that you should visit. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and lively events it provides fun for the whole family.
If you would like to learn more about the history of Melbourne and visit the city’s iconic attractions, join us on a Go West Tour.
