St Francis Xavier

St Francis Xavier is a minor basilica in Gothic Revival style that rises above Salisbury Street in Everton, featuring tall stained glass windows and a spire added in 1883. The stone building displays the ornate details typical of 19th-century church architecture.

The church was founded by local Catholics in 1848 and underwent its major expansion with the addition of the Sodality Chapel in 1888. This period of growth reflects the increasing size of the Catholic community in Liverpool during the 19th century.

The building is named after Saint Francis Xavier, a 16th-century missionary, and displays Victorian artworks and stained glass by Hardman and Powell inside. These artistic elements reflect the tastes of the community that shaped this place of worship.

The building is easily reached from Salisbury Street, where a clear entrance allows visitors to enter without difficulty. Opening times vary by day, so it is worth checking in advance before planning a visit.

The organ inside dates to 1849 and remains one of the church's oldest working components, while eight bells cast in 1920 sound from above. This blend of musical elements creates a distinctive acoustic quality when visiting.

Location: Liverpool

Inception: 1887

Architects: Edmund Kirby

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://sfxchurchliverpool.com

GPS coordinates: 53.41320,-2.96980

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:48