Cathedral of Tranquility (Metropolitan RC Cathedral (Liverpool))

Member Name: Zmugzy

Product:	Metropolitan RC Cathedral (Liverpool)
Date:	22/08/06 (762 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A tranquil place to have a rest.

Disadvantages: None really

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King is a Roman Catholic Cathedral and was built on the site of a 19th century workhouse and above a crypt built in 1933 that was based on an earlier cathedral plan. The Metropolitan Cathedral was designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd after a competition was held inviting 300 entries from all over the world. Construction began in October 1962 and within five years it was completed and consecrated on the Feast of Pentecost, 14 May 1967.

~~ Space Age Architecture ~~
It is a striking and quite ambitious design that went through many stages of development. The building is cylindrical in shape, with a conical roof topped by a tapering coloured glass lantern tower with a crown of spires symbolizing the twelve apostles of Christ.

~~ The Chapels ~~
There are many small chapels that encircle the main cathedral. They are all easily accessible and really do compliment the overall layout of the Cathedral.

~~ Refreshments ~~
The Piazza cafe bar is quite a relaxing place to sit down and read your latest Dan Brown novel whilst munching biscuits and sipping a tea. The food is of a pretty good standard and is freshly prepared each day. There are also available believe it or not speciality coffees, beers and fine wines. The cafe is open between 10am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sunday. Although during summertime they tend to stay open later in the evening. The café forms part of the visitor centre that also comprises a book shop, a gift shop and an information point where you can find out about the construction and history of the Cathedral.

~~ Location ~~
The Cathedral is a bit of a walk from Liverpool Lime Street station near the city centre and as you approach to the cathedral from the centre it is rather an uphill task. There are a number of buses however that can transport you from the city centre which is situated about a mile away. Various buildings that make up the University of Liverpool are located nearby to the Cathedral.

~~ Admission and Opening Times ~~
There is no charge for admission but a contribution (the suggestion is £3) to the upkeep of the building is appreciated. The Cathedral is normally open from 8.00am to 6.00pm, but closed at 5.00pm on Sundays in winter.

For those who are merely addicted to shopping centres or prefer to spend the afternoons and evenings in a state of inebriation then I would say that this is not a 'must see' item on a visit to the city, but if you find yourself in the vicinity of the building then I would encourage you to make the effort of climbing up the steps to enter Paddy's Wigwam.

A virtual tour is available at on the official website:
http://www.liverpool-rc-cathedral.org.uk

Summary: A Spectalular Landmark