All Saints Cathedral, Prayagraj - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit
#8 of 20 Places to Visit in Prayagraj
Distance (From Prayagraj Junction): 1 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 30 Mins
Place Location: On M.G. Marg
Transportation Options: Cab / Auto
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 1 km from Allahabad Railway Station, All Saints Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral located on M.G. Marg in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. Also referred to as Patthar Girja, it is one of the beautiful churches n UP, and among the well-known places to visit as part of Allahabad holiday packages.
Locally known as the 'Church of Stone', All Saints Cathedral was started in the year 1871 by Lady Muir Elizabeth Huntly Wemyss. Post its consecration in 1887, the church was further completed in 1891. The church was designed by the British architect Sir William Emerson who is known for such masterpieces as the Crawford Market in Mumbai and the Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. The church was designed in such a way as to keep the indoors cool and pleasant during the hot summer season.
The church displays a striking 13th-century Gothic revival architecture and is 31 meters in height. Encompasses an area of approximately 1250 sq.m, it is regarded as one of the best Anglican cathedrals found in India and is built with cream-colored stones and the roof covered with red tiles. The cathedral's nave is about 40 feet wide and 130 feet long. With a line of palms around it, this cathedral presents a façade with fine stucco work, Gothic arches, a tower, flying buttresses, and snarling gargoyles. Besides, one can see vaulted ceilings, classical columns, archways, beautiful stained glass windows, and an impressive altar with mosaic and marble inlay inside. The large hall of the church is spacious enough to accommodate 300 to 400 people.
The cathedral also houses many plaques which depict the death of different British nationals for a variety of reasons during their rule in India. Surrounding the church is lush green grass and plants that enhance the beauty of the place. The lantern tower or the Victoria Tower, a memorial to Queen Victoria is another striking feature here. Considered as one of the most beautiful churches in India, the shrine not only attracts pilgrims regularly but also lures a large number of tourists from all over the world.
Timings: 8.30 AM - 5.30 PM
Entry: Free