This Church of Ireland cathedral is a late 19th/early 20th Century addition to the Belfast skyline: construction began in 1899, building  around the existing church of St Anne’s, and the new structure opened its doors to the public in 1904.  However, the most recent addition to the structure – the Spire of Hope – dates from 2007 and was built to commemorate 9/11.

Not many cathedrals can boast a science pillar – this is one of a series dedicated to celebrating Belfast’s early 20th century industrial heritage. Others focus on linen, agriculture, and shipbuilding.

Shipbuilding is also the focus for another recent addition: the “Titanic pall” unveiled in 2012, to commemorate the sinking of the Titanic. Designed by staff from the neighbouring University of Ulster School of Art and Design, it’s an indigo felt and linen tapestry hand-embroidered with crosses and stars to commemorate the 1517 fatalities a century earlier.

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The cathedral is unusual as it is the only Anglican cathedral to house to Bishops’ chairs.  Here are a few more images from around the building.