Object description

The Sacred Heart Basilica or Timaru Basilica, as it is popularly known because of its style of architecture, is a Catholic church in Timaru, New Zealand. It was designed by the prominent New Zealand architect, Francis Petre and is one of his most celebrated works. Its great size and beauty make it one of the most important historic buildings of Timaru and of the South Canterbury region. The Basilica's twin towers and copper cupola are highly visible features of the Timaru skyline, especially from the south. The Basilica is also one of the "most noteworthy examples of ecclesiastical architecture" in New Zealand with elements of "Roman and Byzantine architecture with touches of Art Nouveau decoration." It is a registered historic place, category 1.