06 March 2014

it's a long way to the top ....

Unaware on the day, that this stone stairway wasn't going to make for easy access to the grand Cathedral set so high, overlooking the city of Newcastle.  The walk just to get to this point, at the foot of the steps, was in itself arduous, up a very steep hill.

Though it was obvious of course, when reaching the top of these steps, where the ground was broken up still, and leading then onto large expanses of roughly mown grass slopes.  I couldn't see the Sunday congregation taking this path that I trod....

Still, the Cathedral was 'just up there' and little point of heading back down, and around the large city block to any other entrance.  Which way would I go anyway, left ... or right?  Time was of the essence.  Go see this monumental structure before heading home, or give it a miss.

So, with a bit of tricky footwork, I got photos to share!

The Anglican, Christ Church Cathedral has quite an elaborate history that I couldn't do justice by interpreting here (so I won't).    Instead, I link to the cathedral's site where relevant details are well documented.

In 1989 a 5.6 earthquake shook the city of Newcastle, claiming 13 lives, and bringing about a damage bill $AUD4 billion.  The Re-Hallowing of the Cathedral took place not until January, 1997.



it was after rounding the corner of the Cathedral at this point, there was to be seen open doors, to the front of the Cathedral!  True, I hadn't done any geo-research obviously.

and it was special to not only be able to enter, but also to be granted permission to take photos.

a later notation added here: Looking over the Cathedral's site here I find that this is The Lecturn, taking the form of an eagle with spread wings, made of brass.  It had been gifted in 1902 by Miss Emma Kemp.

leaving, the way I should have entered.

12 comments:

Jeanne said...

Beautiful shots Carole, and this looks like quite an amazing place. I especially love your shot of the front with that amazing door which is so gorgeous. Will check out t he website for this. hugs from Texas

Montanagirl said...

That Cathedral is just amazing. So glad you managed some very nice photos to share with us!

Irma said...

Hi Carole,
Great photos of this cathedral.
Very nice I like the eagle, I think that is gold.
It was the walk to the stairs worth.

John @ Beans and I on the Loose said...

There are a lot of bricks in that building! And what is with the golden eagle? A church doesn't seem the place for that. To answer your question of the other day, no there are no leaches that I know of. Ticks yeah. Got to be aware of them if tromping through the meadows.

Jan Castle said...

Worth every step Carole....TFS!
Jan

Bob Bushell said...

Superb pieces of art, the cathedral is made into fantastic photos Carole.

Carole M. said...

John/Sinbad...I added a notation, the eagle is actually made of brass, and is known as The Lecturn.

diane b said...

Hee hee wrong way...at least you got some exercise. It is a lovely cathedral and the lecturn is special. Great shots.

DeniseinVA said...

The cathedral is beautiful and so is your shot of those steps. All that effort I thank you for. These are wonderful photographs.

Grandma Barb's This and That said...

What a grand old Cathedral! I love the doorway and the first set of steps you took.

Ida said...

Wow the architecture of this old cathedral is amazing. Loved the Eagle too.

cath said...

Quelle belle visite des lieux !
J'aime beaucoup tes photos!
Très bon week-end à toi !