St Monica's Old Cathedral, Cairns, Catholic cathedral in Cairns, Australia
Description
St Monica's Old Cathedral is a two-story church in Spanish Mission style located in Cairns. The facade features Celtic crosses, spacious verandahs provide shelter, and reinforced concrete construction allows the building to withstand the tropical climate.
History
The original church from 1886 was destroyed by Cyclone Willis in 1927, prompting construction of the building that stands today. Architects Lawrence and Lordan designed this replacement to serve the local community anew.
Culture
The building holds the colours of the 51st Battalion, placed there in 1969, connecting the site to the region's military past. This role as a war memorial shapes how locals view and use the space today.
Practical
The building now serves as offices for the Diocese of Cairns and may not always be open for general visiting. Check ahead to learn about visiting hours or whether the interior is accessible to the public.
Did you know?
The bell rings the Angelus prayer three times each day at 9 AM, noon, and 6 PM, marking the rhythm of Catholic tradition. This steady pattern has echoed through Cairns for generations.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Queensland).
St Monica's War Memorial Cathedral
53 m
Floriana, Cairns
887 m
Cairns Aquarium
233 m
Bolands Centre
883 m
Barrier Reef Hotel
1.2 km
Cairns War Memorial
330 m
Cairns City Council Chambers
494 m
Cairns Masonic Temple
184 m
Cairns Court House Complex
758 m
Bishop's House, Cairns
46 m
St Joseph's Convent, Cairns
88 m
McLeod Street Pioneer Cemetery
847 m
Cairns School of Arts
643 m
Cairns Technical College and High School Building
444 m
Herries Private Hospital
785 m
Hides Hotel
722 m
Central Hotel
883 m
Cairns Chinatown Building
779 m
Dr EA Koch Memorial
962 m
Cairns Customs House
1 km
Cairns Control Room
267 m
Jack and Newell Building
1.2 km
Grove Street Pensioners' Cottages
1.1 km
St Monica's High School Administration Building
120 m
Adelaide Steamship Co Ltd Building
959 m
Mulgrave Shire Council Chambers
822 m
Big Captain Cook
955 m
Cairns City Library
490 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes