Emmanuel Cathedral

Emmanuel Cathedral in Durban, South Africa, has a rich and fascinating history. It was designed by renowned architect Street Wilson and the cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. It’s another great Durban attraction that brings people from across the word to view its majestic elegance. A mecca for tourists from around the globe.

The Cathedral was on the site of a much older church called St Joseph but the building fell into such disrepair that it had to be demolished in 1891. So they built the Emmanuel Cathedral in it’s place which enabled Durban to be classed as a city. 

The construction of the cathedral began in 1902, the foundation stone was laid by Bishop Charles Jolivet and the church completed by christmas 1903. The incredibly beautiful  Roman Catholic Emmanuel Cathedrals architecture is impressive, and the centerpiece is a magnificent cross carved out of Carrara marble. 

This was a personal gift from the wife of Napoleon III of France, the Empress Eugenie and was shipped all the way from Italy. She had an affinity with Durban and was a benefactor in many other Durban tourist attractions from the same period.

While wandering through, take time to enjoy the spectacular stained glass windows depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross. Again these were donated by the Empress Eugenie of France in 1880, this time to honor her fallen son, the Prince Imperial, Louis-Napoléon. The Prince Imperial, had been killed in the Anglo-Zulu War the previous year. The Stations of the Cross were made in Angers in France in 1902 and installed in 1904.

Over the years, it has undergone various renovations and additions. The round stained glass windows on the sidewalls known as ‘eyes’ and the addition of a bell tower were remains of the former church St Joseph’s. The Chapel of our Lady was built in 1928, When Bishop Delalle celebrated his silver jubilee, the chapel was gifted to him from the people of the diocese. The Cathedral’s interior is really impressive, with intricate woodwork, vaulted ceilings and a serene atmosphere conducive to prayer and reflection. It continues to be a beacon of faith and hope for the people of Durban, welcoming visitors from all walks of life to experience its beauty and spirituality.

If you love architecture and want to take a step back in time and enjoy the significance of such a masterpiece that dominates the Durban skyline. Make sure this is on your list of tourist attractions you visit while here in Durban. You won’t be disappointed. It‘s breathtaking!

If you need a local to show you all these amazing places or simply help you explore and enjoy the real culture of Durban then get in touch with us. Durban Vibe Guides with language skills are waiting to help and can be booked on this site. Support can be given in person or remotely via Whatsapp. See the real Durban and experience the unique Durban Vibe.

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