Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral gains Grade I listed status
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King in Liverpool – often dubbed the ‘Wigwam’ or ‘Mersey Funnel’ – has been upgraded to Grade I listed status by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, following advice from Historic England.
Completed in 1967, the striking modernist cathedral by Sir Frederick Gibberd is now officially recognised as a building of exceptional architectural and historical interest. Previously Grade II* listed, it joins its Anglican counterpart at the opposite end of Hope Street among the UK’s most significant places of worship.
Built on top of an uncompleted crypt by Sir Edwin Lutyens, Gibberd’s design marked a radical departure from traditional church architecture. His circular plan and central altar anticipated reforms from the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965), placing the congregation around the Eucharist and embracing a more participatory form of worship.
Historic England described it as “a revolution in cathedral design”, praising the structural ingenuity and visual impact of its conical roof, sixteen flying buttresses, and lantern tower – or ‘corona’ – of epoxy-bonded coloured glass by artists John Piper and Patrick Reyntiens.
“The cathedral represents the greatest Roman Catholic post-war architectural commission in Britain,” said Sarah Charlesworth, Historic England’s listing team leader for the North. “Gibberd’s masterpiece showcases extraordinary artistic collaboration and stands as one of Britain’s most significant post-war achievements.”
Works of art integrated into the cathedral’s structure include William Mitchell’s Evangelist entrance doors, a crucifix by Elizabeth Frink, Ceri Richards’ reredos in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, David Atkins’ marble floor patterns, and stained glass by Margaret Traherne.
Archbishop John Sherrington welcomed the upgrade during the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year: “The cathedral has been described as ‘the soul of the city’ and brings hope to thousands who visit each year. Its colours and revolutionary style help raise their minds and hearts beyond this world to the transcendent and to God.”
Local leaders also praised the news. Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram called the cathedral “a beacon of faith, hope and innovation”, while Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson described the reclassification as “a proud moment for Liverpool” that reflects “the spirit of innovation and resilience that epitomises our city.”
Originally designed to seat 3,000, the building was scaled down during planning and built quickly and economically over five years. Yet its impact has grown steadily, from controversy at the time of its construction to global recognition as a pioneering example of post-war religious architecture.
Catherine Croft, director of the Twentieth Century Society, said the listing confirms what many already felt: “A great vessel of post-war glass, sculpture and design, it has long been a powerful homecoming beacon for Liverpudlians. The upgrade will help ensure its careful conservation and appreciation by all who visit – to worship or just to marvel.”
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