St Mary Star of the Sea RC Church, Roman Catholic church in Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland
St Mary Star of the Sea is a Roman Catholic church on Constitution Street in Leith with Italianate architecture. The building has a high braced roof, simple pointed arcades throughout its interior, and coloured glass windows that create light patterns in the nave and side spaces.
The church was built in 1852 by architects E.W. Pugin and Joseph Hansom. A north aisle was added in 1900, and a new chancel was completed in 1912 as the building expanded.
The church is dedicated to Our Lady Star of the Sea, reflecting Leith's long connection to the harbour and seafaring life. This devotion shaped how the local community saw itself over generations.
The church is accessible during its weekly services and remains open for visitors at other times as well. It is best to visit quietly and respect any activities taking place inside.
Excavations beneath the church in 2004 uncovered remains of Balmerino House from 1631, a grand residence that once stood on the site. Human remains from the 16th century were also found in the ground below.
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