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Best Historic Locations in Sydney

, 9 Options Found

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the foundation stones for St Mary's Cathedral were laid by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1821. After a series of architects and religious figures suggested their own versions of the cathedral, the building finally opened in 1900, although work continued until 1928. Wardell's original design had two spires that were never built. After ten years' debate and political fund-raising, the twin spires were finally completed in 2000. Today, St. Mary's Cathedral is heralded as one of the most beautiful buildings in Sydney. Visitors to the cathedral can wander around the beautiful interior, which is lit by ornate stained glass windows. Treasures located in the cathedral include the moving and beautifully sculpted Grave of the Unknown Soldier, a marble replica of Michelangelo's Pieta and many gorgeous religious paintings from the late 19th-Century.

Aside from the beautifully kept gardens, Hyde Park provides a tranquil haven to the thousands of daily urban commuters amidst the hustle and bustle of Sydney's city life. It is not only a sanctuary but also a fitting home to the famous 1934 Art Deco Anzac Memorial, and the Archibald Fountain; a magnificent bronze and granite fountain commemorating the French and Australian alliance in World War I. The park looks particularly attractive at night when thousands of tiny fairy lights twinkle amidst the boughs of the ancient trees which line the walkways.

Located near the Circular Quay, The Rocks is a beautiful neighborhood in Sydney. This area dates back to the 18th Century and houses some historic structures and the Museum of Contemporary Art. You can enjoy historic walking tours or just stroll through the charming market on weekends. The weekend market offers some locally-produced vegetables, accessories, garments and more and is thronged by tourists and locals alike. Besides, this place offers quaint views of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, affording several photo opportunities. All in all, this is a must-visit spot if you want to experience the local lifestyle of Sydney.

Spread across 17.9 hectares (44 acres), Cockatoo Island is the largest island in Sydney Harbour. The heavily forested island served as a convict establishment until 1868 when the island became the home of one of Australia’s largest shipyards. One of the shipyard’s two dry docks were built by convicts before the convict establishment was closed. The shipyard operated until 1991. In 2010, the island was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Cockatoo Island is fast becoming a major tourist attraction with a number of cultural events and festivals held on the island throughout the year.

Governor Lachlan Macquarie wanted, a grand church for Sydney, and architect Francis Greenway, began work on a Gothic inspired metropolitan church. Building was abandoned many times due to funding, drought and Government objections. The sandstone Cathedral was completed in 1868, consecrated and opened as St Andrew's Cathedral on St. Andrew's Day. Features include the William Hill organ and 42 stained glass windows, which were removed during World War II and stored in the Blue Mountains for safekeeping.

Located opposite Hyde Park Barracks Museum, St James' Church was originally designed in 1819 as a courthouse. Architect Francis Greenway was forced to convert it to a church to hold services for convicts from the Barracks. Samuel Marsden, the infamous flogging parson, was Senior Chaplin here. The Church has had many restorations, both interior and exterior, and additions such as the Children's Chapel. It is one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in central Sydney.

Designed by Thomas Rowe, this building, the headquarters of the Jewish faith, was consecrated in 1878. The Great Synagogue features columns, ornate wrought-iron gates, a paneled ceiling covered with gold leaf stars, and other elaborate decorations inspired by synagogues built in London and Liverpool. There is also a museum that runs two or three exhibitions a year on different aspects of Jewish life and heritage.

Established in 1867, Rookwood Anglican & General Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the world. It is also one of the best surviving examples of a Victorian garden cemetery. Over eighty different religious groups are represented here. Search out the graves of department store proprietor, David Jones, early feminist Louisa Lawson and David Scott Mitchell who endowed the Mitchell Library. The Friends of Rookwood Cemetery run guided tours including a General Heritage Walk, Ships and Shipwrecks, Bushrangers and Summer Twilight Tours.

One of the several historic structures that can be found in the city, the Bare Island Fort is an intimidating fortification built on the Bare Island, a part of the Botany Bay National Park in La Perouse. The fort was built in 1885 by the then British colonists who feared a Russian attack from the sea, and as the Botany Bay was considered the city's ''back door'', it was necessary to insulate that area. Though normally the fort is not accessible to the public, there are guided tours held each Sunday that take visitors on a truly magnificent journey. Call to know more.

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