Saint Stephen’s Cathedral Verified listing

St Stephen’s Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of St Stephen, is a heritage-listed Gothic Revival church located at the corner of Elizabeth and Charlotte Streets in Brisbane’s CBD. Construction began in 1863 under the direction of Brisbane’s first bishop, James Quinn, with the nave opening for worship in 1874 and the twin sandstone spires completed by 1884. The building was extended in the 1920s to form its current cruciform layout. It underwent significant interior renovations in 1989, with the addition of the Jubilee Pipe Organ in 2000. The cathedral precinct also includes St Stephen’s Chapel, built in 1850, which has been beautifully restored and is one of the oldest surviving churches in Queensland.

The interior of the cathedral is a striking mix of old and new. Stained-glass windows from Germany, France, Ireland, and Australia add colour and depth to the light-filled space, with the "Ascension" window by Harry Clarke being a particular highlight. These windows, combined with the cathedral’s Victorian plaster arches, Carrara marble altar, and individual timber pews with kneelers, create a sacred and peaceful atmosphere. In recent decades, modern additions like the Blessed Sacrament Chapel and quiet prayer areas have been integrated to meet contemporary worship needs while preserving the church’s historical character.

Entry to St Stephen’s Cathedral is free, and guided tours are available on weekdays, typically around 10:30 am following morning Mass. The tours offer insights into the cathedral's architecture, history, and spiritual significance and also include the adjoining St Stephen’s Chapel. The cathedral hosts regular Masses, cultural events, and occasional candlelit concerts. It is easily accessible by public transport, including Central Station and the Queen Street bus station. Set within a peaceful green precinct, the cathedral is a serene and reflective destination in the heart of Brisbane.