Christ Church Cathedral

The Christ Church Cathedral Nassau is one of the oldest structures on New Providence. Combining history, religion, and stunning architecture, it’s a great Nassau attraction to visit.

The Bahamas has many historical sites that fly under the radar, one of which is the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau. Regardless of whether you’re religious or secular, the cathedral remains a stunning embodiment of Gothic architecture, religious fervor, and 19th-century history. 

Christ Church Cathedral Nassau: Explore the Christ Church Cathedral Bahamas

A History of the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau Bahamas

Many consider the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau to be one of the most important Anglican churches in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos. The church’s history and that of Christianity in the Bahamas, in general, stretches back to the late 1600s. 

In 1670, the British monarch King Charles II instructed the Lord Proprietors of Carolina to further the spread of Christianity through the construction of chapels and churches. This era saw the construction of many religious centers throughout the Caribbean. 

Parts of the structure date back hundreds of years.

The first two religious structures built in present-day Nassau were wooden and destroyed in Spanish raids. In 1724, colonists constructed a third building at the present site. Thirty years later, in 1754, a stone structure replaced this one, with a steeple added in 1774. The current steeple later replaced this in 1830. 

In 1861, the church became a cathedral, and it’s remained a Nassau Old Town landmark ever since. 

What to See at the Christ Church Cathedral Bahamas

Appreciate the History

Historical and cultural relics adorn the cathedral’s interior.

If you enjoy learning about history, the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau Bahamas is a great place to do it. 

As you explore the church’s interior, you’ll come across several plaques and tablets. These explain many of the historical happenings that took place in colonial Nassau and allow you to get an understanding of the trials and tribulations that the population endured. These stories offer a moving experience. 

See the Stained Glass Windows

The church’s stained glass windows are famous.

While the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau Bahamas has many architectural highlights, the stained glass windows are particularly noteworthy. Showcasing various religious scenes and motifs, they paint the church’s interior in a medley of hues and colors. 

Travelers who time their visits to when the sun filters directly through the windows will get to enjoy an extra colorful experience. 

Explore the Cloister

The church’s exterior garden is as peaceful as the interior.

Although it’s not huge, the Christ Church Cathedral Bahamas does have a cloister that’s worth walking through. As is the case with the cathedral’s interior, the cloister is a perfect spot for contemplation and rest. 

Most people might know Paradise Island for its massive resorts, but it also features a 14th-century cloister from a French monastery. Located at the Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort, you’ll need to be a hotel guest to walk around the cloister. However, you can still appreciate it from the road.

Consider taking a trip to Paradise Island after you finish soaking in the sites of Old Town and New Providence. 

Getting into the Cathedral

The Christ Church Cathedral Bahamas is in Old Town, which makes it easy to visit. Most travelers on the island will be able to walk there – you can expect around a seven-minute walk from the cruise terminal. 

Christ Church Cathedral Nassau Bahamas is a short walk away from the cruise terminal.

If you’re staying at a hotel that’s not in Downtown Nassau, make a visit to the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau part of a greater Old Town walking tour. 

The church holds services on Sundays at 7:30 am, 9:00 am, 11:15 am, and 6:00 pm. 

Getting Around

The interior and exterior of the church are both worth exploring. As with any place of worship, being respectful of others who may be there praying is important. 

The cathedral is one of many historic sites in the area.

After touring the church, give yourself time to explore other Old Town attractions. While the area is right near the cruise port, many tourists miss out on these attractions, not realizing that they’re there. This is especially true for some of the historical sites. 

Our Travel Guide Suggests…

Nassau is all hustle and bustle, especially in the late morning and early afternoon. Because of that, finding destinations that offer a moment of respite can be challenging. While it might not serve food or drinks or offer views of the water, make sure to appreciate the quiet serenity of the Christ Church Cathedral Nassau when you visit. 

Christ Church Cathedral Nassau: A Historical Site Off the Beaten Path 

The Christ Church Cathedral Nassau is one of the many historical sites on the island. That said, many travelers miss out on it and aren’t aware of all that it has to offer. Make sure to visit the cathedral on your Bahamas vacation. 

After touring Christ Church Cathedral Bahamas, you’ll have plenty of other nearby Nassau attractions to visit. From the Pirates of Nassau across the street to other historical sites like Government House and Parliament Square, the area has many locations to explore. 

If you’re looking for more guides to make the most of your time in the Bahamas, make sure to check out the rest of our site. You’ll also want to click around our interactive map!