St. Michael's Cathedral, Toronto

On Church Street in the Garden District of Toronto stands Saint Michael’s Cathedral. Clad in tones of grey and brick, this cathedral stands solitary with its exceptional majestic appeal and timeless architectural pride. And why not, Saint Michael's is the oldest temple in Toronto, dating back to the mid-19th century.

This overpowering structure demands attention of any passer-by with its robust Neo-Gothic appearance and linear, geometric patterns. Although its exterior may be quite overwhelming and severe, the interior of the cathedral comes as a total surprise. Balancing the exacting exterior, the insides of the church are dabbed with color, grandeur and gentle elegance. Unlike many Christian places of worship in Toronto, built in Gothic Revival (where the Gothic is tweaked to fit modern times), Saint Michael's Cathedral sticks to the classic Gothic style – featuring rich stained glass windows, high vaulted ceiling with richly hued murals and paintings along with sculptures of various saints and other figurines. The cathedral was designed by William Thomas, an Anglo-Canadian architect, best known for his stunning and timeless creations and vintage architectural landscape in Canada.

Other than being a place of faith for the Catholics of the region, this cathedral was heavily involved in the establishment of the Saint Michael’s Hospital, a medical center and a teaching hospital in Toronto.

Why You Should Visit:
Beautiful architecture, magnificent in terms of colors and comfort.
After an extensive renovation, the basement is now functional, the pews are all cushioned and the solemnity of the place is well kept!

Tip:
This is a great place to attend mass, especially when the Saint Michael's choir is singing.