Major Renovations
The exterior of the cathedral has remained relatively unchanged over the last 100 years. In 1864 the Toronto firm Gundry and Langley added an enlarged sacristy to the Cathedral. In 1866 the same firm was also responsible for the addition of the tower and spire which adorns the west entrance of the cathedral. In 1880 the current three-manual pipe organ was installed in the Cathedral's gallery. The dormered windows located on the roof were added some time in the 1890s with the intent to improve the Cathedral's appearance; it is believed that architect Joseph Connolly was responsible for their design. The interior of the building has remained the same in terms of its plan; however, additions such as the marble high altar and pulpit in 1980 have brought the cathedral up to standard with the teachings of the Second Vatican Council. Most of the present paintings that adorn the roof and walls of the cathedral date to 1937, with several smaller ones having been added since, the most recent in 1982. In 2011, restorations are taking place that will include the west facade being cleaned, bringing the bricks back to their original yellow colour.
Read more about this topic: St. Michael's Cathedral (Toronto)
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