The two cathedrals of Liverpool are quite a contrast. They were both built during the 20th Century, but while the Anglican cathedral was traditional in style, the Catholic cathedral shown here is a much more modern design.
The original design for the Catholic cathedral was by Edward Welby Pugin, and by 1856 the Lady Chapel was completed. However no further progress was made, and the chapel served as a parish church until it's demolition in the 1980s.
The second design was by Sir Edwin Lutyens, and construction began in 1933. It was suspended in 1941 due to the Second World War.
After the war, to reduce costs, a third design by Adrian Gilbert Scott, brother of Giles Gilbert Scott (architect of the Anglican Cathedral) was adopted, but no work was started.
A fourth design by Sir Frederick Gibberd was the result of a competition in 1959, and it was this design that we see today, with construction lasting from 1962 to 1967. It was built above the crypt of the design by Sir Edwin Lutyens, which provides a large paved area around the church.
This is a circular building with the altar in the centre and a large lantern tower above, with seating arranged in a circle around the altar. Around the sides of the building are 13 chapels. The effect is a bold, attractive, warm and welcoming interior. Well worth a visit if you find yourself in Liverpool.
Thank you for your comments and favs, which put this shot onto the Popular page. I'm looking forward to hearing your responses to the Anglican Cathedral as well.
Thank you for your comments and favs, which put this shot onto the Popular page. I'm looking forward to hearing your responses to the Anglican Cathedral as well.
Ian