Audioguida di Launceston: Una passeggiata nel cuore storico di Launceston

As you continue your walk down St John Street, look to your right for an impressive building that stands out with its striking Italianate style. This is the Launceston Town Hall, and it’s absolutely unmissable with its grand colonnade, featuring a series of tall, white columns. The building’s ornate detailing and the flags fluttering atop it give it a regal look, akin to a historical European palace. The Launceston Town Hall, located at 18/28 St John Street, was commissioned in 1864 by the Launceston Town Council. The project was designed by architect Peter Mills, and the foundation stone was laid on 21 April 1864 by the then Governor of Tasmania, Thomas Gore Browne. Imagine how it was in those days-think horse-drawn carriages stopping by what was then a burgeoning civic hub! By 1867, the Town Hall was ready to serve the community. But over the years, it experienced several expansions and modifications. Think of it as a grand old house that has been renovated to keep up with the times. In 1906, it got its first major expansion, but the grand addition took place in 1936 when the building’s colonnade was extended, adding five new columns to the original four. This gave it even more of a pronounced majestic look. If the building could talk, it would tell you about the makeover in 1970, and a few more touch-ups in 1988 and 1994. All these efforts have kept it looking as glorious as ever. The main façade, with its imposing colonnade, truly stands as a testament to its historic and architectural significance in Launceston. So, take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the Town Hall, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some official activity or a community event happening inside!

As you approach, you'll notice St Andrew's Kirk on your right. Look for a striking building with a tall, narrow spire reaching for the sky, like a finger pointing to the heavens. The façade is cream-colored with Gothic-inspired features, including arched windows and intricate details. The spire, tapering elegantly, and the large archway at the entrance make it quite distinctive. Keep an eye out for the leafless tree in front, it's like nature’s way of pointing you towards the Kirk! Now, let’s dive into a bit of history, shall we? St Andrew's Kirk, located right here on St John Street, is more than just a pretty face. This Presbyterian church serves the Presbytery of Bass and has been doing so for quite a while! It all started back in 1831 when the Scottish community of Launceston decided they needed a place to worship, leading to the construction of the Scotch National Church on Charles Street. But as the congregation grew, so did their need for a larger building. Fast forward to the 1840s, they decided to build a new church closer to Launceston’s business district. They found the perfect spot, which used to be a watch house (talk about a makeover!). They advertised for designs and the winning entry came from William Henry Clayton. Despite being smaller than requested, his design featured a charming Gothic-inspired style built with local bricks and sandstone. The foundation stone was laid in 1849, and within 15 months, the church was ready. With a cost of almost £3,956 (in installments, no less), the construction by William Tyson, a member of the congregation himself, was completed, and the church opened its doors in December 1850. As more members flocked in, the church saw various extensions and alterations. The most significant was the addition of St Andrew's Chambers. Over the years, various modifications modernized the interior, including a new vestibule, additional seating, and up-to-date sound and lighting equipment. So here you are, standing before a landmark that’s not only a piece of architectural beauty but also a vessel of rich history!

As you approach the Majestic Theatre, keep an eye to your right. You’ll spot a grand, creamy-hued building with a majestic (!) archway right in the center. Above the entrance, you'll see three tall windows flanked by classic columns, which add to the Grecian charm. The word “Majestic” should still be visible above the arch - it's a historic giveaway that you’re in the right place! The Majestic Theatre is indeed a piece of cinematic history in Launceston. This fabulous former theatre and cinema opened its doors to a full house on the 2nd of June, 1917, thanks to the efforts of Greek-Australian businessman Marino Lucas. It was a dazzling place back in the day with room for 1,510 excited patrons, separated into the dress circle, stalls, and back stalls. Marvel at the architecture influenced by Lucas’s Greek heritage, with a design that local newspapers once compared to the ancient Pantheon. During World War I, this place wasn't just for watching movies; it was the liveliest cinema in Tasmania! Did you know that the fame of the Majestic’s success even spread to Melbourne? Marino’s brother, Anthony Lucas, influenced by this theatre, went on to build the iconic Capitol Theatre there. The Majestic even had its brush with film fame, premiering Ken Hall’s "Gone to the Dogs" in 1939 and hosting actor Michael Pate in 1950 to promote "Sons of Matthew." But like many grand old theatres, the rise of television meant curtains for the Majestic - the final film shown was "Sweet Charity" in February 1970. The Pitt brothers, Neil and Don, rescued the building from disuse, turning it into a menswear store while preserving a slice of its cinematic past. Inside, you’ll still find the 1929 projection equipment on display. And for a touch of the eerie, the Majestic Theatre even inspired a horror novel, "Encore," about fictitious hauntings. This piece of Launceston cinema history continues to captivate, long after the final credits rolled. Enjoy the view!

As you walk down St. John's Street, keep your eyes peeled to the left. You'll spot the Launceston Synagogue standing proudly with its unique trapezoidal facade. Looking straight ahead, you'll see a large window bearing a Star of David. The building is painted in a subtle, light color, which makes the Star of David and the building's architectural details stand out even more. The Launceston Synagogue is quite a historical gem! Built in 1844 and consecrated in 1846, this building is Australia's second-oldest synagogue, right after the one in Hobart. Isn't that neat? Designed by Richard Peter Lambeth and constructed by the Tasmanian builders Barton and Bennell, this synagogue is also the oldest place of non-Christian worship in Launceston. From 1884 until about 1871 and then again during the 1930s until 1961, it served as an active synagogue, reopening once more in 1984. Back in the 1840s, the plucky Launceston Hebrew Congregation raised £500 to purchase the land for this building. Unique for its Egyptian revival architecture - a rare sight in Australia - it has a distinct trapezoidal facade and a significant window with the Star of David. In 1989, it was listed with the National Trust of Australia, ensuring its preservation and renovation. And how about this for an interesting tidbit? In 1847, arrangements were made for Jewish prisoners in Hobart and Launceston to attend synagogue and refrain from work on the Sabbath. So, as you stand before this beautiful and historic building, imagine the stories it could tell - a window into the past and a testament to the vibrant history of the community.

As you're walking along, keep your eyes peeled to your left and look for a striking mix of red and cream-colored stonework with a prominent clock tower - that's St John's Church. The church is set amidst some lush greenery, adding a welcoming touch to this grand piece of history. Now, about St John's, let me take you on a little time journey. St John's Church is the oldest in Launceston, with its construction starting way back in 1824. Imagine the early settlers rolling up their sleeves and getting to work on what would become one of the oldest surviving churches in all of Australia! Though it's had its fair share of facelifts over the years, the tower and the first pair of windows in the nave remain as original as a vinyl record collection. Perched at the corner of St John Street and Elizabeth Street, St John's is like the elder statesman among the five churches facing Prince's Square. Here's a fun fact: the church bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London. Fancy that, a piece of London ringing through Launceston! Oh, and let's not forget Thomas Sharp, the church's organist from 1857 to 1875. Imagine those Sunday services with Sharp playing, it must have been quite the melodic treat! Enjoy your visit and feel the echoes of history as you explore!

As you approach Prince's Square, keep an eye out to your left. You'll see a beautifully laid out park with perfectly symmetrical paths converging towards the center. You won't miss the iconic Val d'Osne Fountain standing proudly amid this natural splendor. The trees around are stunning with their leaves creating a lovely canopy above. Now let’s dive into the history and charm of Prince's Square! Established in 1858 from an old brickfield, Prince's Square has blossomed into an essential cultural hub and a heritage park in Launceston. Surrounded by Elizabeth Street, St John Street, Frederick Street, and Charles Street, this verdant oasis boasts symmetrical design and the bronze gilded Val d'Osne Fountain at its heart. Once a clay pit used in constructing the first brick buildings in the settlement, the square was later transformed into a grand park. Notably, the bricks made here helped build St John’s Anglican Church right across the street! In 1851, this very square hosted an election for the new Legislative Council in Van Diemen's Land. By 1853, it witnessed a grand congregation when Launceston celebrated its new municipality status and the end of convict transportation. The enthusiastic locals, alongside the Launceston Horticultural Society, set out to make this park a stately gathering place. Lovingly designed by curator Thomas Wade, the park saw the addition of lavish paths, fences, and an array of trees including oaks and sequoias. The Val d'Osne Fountain, a magnificent centerpiece, was added a year later in 1859. Funny enough, there’s a local myth about this fountain: it was supposedly meant for Launceston in Cornwall, England but ended up here in Tasmania due to a shipping mix-up! In 1868, the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit inspired the park's renaming from St John’s Square to Prince's Square. He even planted two oak trees during a memorable candlelit celebration. So take a moment to soak in the history and beauty of Prince’s Square, and maybe let your imagination wander back to the days of brick-making, grand celebrations, and a town coming into its own!

As you're walking along Frederick Street, keep an eye to your left-you can't miss Christ Church and Milton Hall. Look out for the striking red brick church with an impressive octagonal spire reaching to the sky, flanked by turrets and buttresses. Directly next to it, you'll see the grand portico with four Doric columns supporting a pediment that reads "Milton Hall," and if you squint, you might just make out the old inscription for "Launceston High School". Both sets of buildings give off a distinctively historic vibe, like they've seen a lot of Launceston history. Now, on to the fun part! Christ Church and Milton Hall are like a historic double act, each playing a significant role in Launceston's early days. Milton Hall, formerly known as St John’s Congregational Church, was built around 1841-42 by the pioneering John West. You’ll spot it easily with its Greek Revival style and stately Doric columns. This hall has seen its fair share of big moments-from fiery debates about convict transportation to housing the very first vision of the Australian flag! Talk about being in the thick of things. Right next door is Christ Church, originally constructed as a smaller church but given a mighty makeover between 1883-1885 into the grand Gothic Revival beauty you see today. Courtesy of architects Granger & D'Ebro, it now boasts that show-stopping octagonal spire, a collection of turrets, and ever-solid buttresses. Plus, inside you have a c. 1875 organ by Bevington & Sons that promises some impressive acoustics. What's particularly touching is one of its stained-glass windows, depicting the Calling of Matthew. It was a notable piece at the Tasmanian Exhibition of 1891-92. While the church once served as the City Baptist Church until 2021, it is now under new management, giving it a fresh chapter in its historic story. So, take a moment to appreciate these twin landmarks. They've been homes to schools, debates, worshipping communities, and more-a true snapshot of Launceston's diverse history. Enjoy soaking up the atmosphere of history as you look around!

As you stroll down Margaret Street, Sacred Heart School will soon come into view on your right. Keep an eye out for a striking red-brick structure with ornate Victorian-style architecture. The building has a welcoming facade with large windows and green, manicured lawns that frame the front entrance splendidly. Now that you've spotted it, let's dive into its backstory! Sacred Heart School isn't just your regular primary school; it has a rather impressive and storied history. Established back in 1872 by the Presentation Sisters, this place originally served students up to Grade Two before focusing solely on the education of young ladies all the way to Grade 12. For a spell, the Sisters even took in boarders and educated boys at the secondary level. Talk about multi-tasking! They must've needed a lot of patience teaching both genders. At one point, a gentleman took charge of running the section for young men-probably a brave soul, indeed. By 1919, the Christian Brothers swung into Launceston and took over the education of the boys. The Presentation Sisters were essentially running two schools: Sacred Heart College, a fee-paying establishment, and St Mary's School, a parish school. Come 1978, a major shakeup happened. Sacred Heart College joined forces with St Thomas More's to create Marian College, catering to both secondary and primary school girls. That partnership lasted until 1984, when secondary classes were transferred to St. Patrick's College. What emerged from all this educational evolution were two co-ed primary schools: St Thomas More's School and Sacred Heart School. And here we are-standing next to the historic Sacred Heart School, now a vibrant part of Launceston’s educational landscape. Did you know you could trace a wealth of local history at this very spot? It's not just about the ABCs here; it's about decades of community and transformation! Alright, ready for our next stop? Let's continue our adventure!

Alright, dear traveler! You should be approaching the Church of the Apostles now, and it’ll be on your right. Keep an eye out for a charming structure with Gothic Revival features. This landmark stands out with its dark stone exterior and contrasting light-colored accents around the windows and doors. The tall, pointed bell tower and sharp spire under the vast blue sky are hard to miss. You might also spot a grand palm tree right in front of the main entrance. Now, let's dive into its fascinating history! The Church of the Apostles is a Catholic church here in Launceston, part of the Archdiocese of Hobart. Back in 1838, the local Catholic community had no fixed place of worship, so they set up a temporary chapel on Cameron Street. That same year, the government allocated land on Margaret Street for a permanent chapel dedicated to Saint Joseph. The foundation stone for St. Joseph’s was laid in March 1839, and the church was inaugurated by October 1842. Two decades later, the church needed a refresh-it was showing its age. The decision was made to construct a larger church, designed by Tasmanian architect Henry Hunter. In September 1864, Bishop Willson laid the foundation stone for the new Church of Mary, Queen of the Apostles. By October 1866, the nave and aisles were built, and the church was opened for religious services in November that same year. Construction continued into the late 19th century, with various sections and the tower being completed in different stages. Fun fact: The bell tower, designed by Peter Staunton, didn’t get finished until 1989, a century after its foundation stone was laid! The interior features the original stone high altar, a pulpit crafted from blackwood and huon pine by Timothy Earley, and a magnificent pipe organ dedicated in 1933, housed within two flanking columns. This church is not just a place of worship but a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty. Ready to move on, or lingering to admire this beauty a bit longer? You’ve got quite a landmark before you!

As you approach stop number 13, Launceston College, look to your right! Prepare to be greeted by a grand, stately building that stands proud with its striking combination of red brick and light brown stone. The large Palm trees in front give it a distinctive tropical vibe - you can't miss them. Look for the words "Launceston College" boldly marking the central entrance. Now, for a fun fact-filled dip into history! Launceston College is like a time traveler of sorts. Established in 1913, it originally opened as Launceston State High School. Over time, it has adapted not just its curriculum but also its name, evolving to its current identity. This school isn't just any boring old place; imagine attending classes in a location that once housed the Launceston Female Factory and Gaol built way back in 1834. Yes, you could say it has a bit of a past! The college stands out for its diverse offerings - from a gymnasium complex complete with a swimming pool, sauna, and rock climbing wall (who said school isn't fun?), to a full-on commercial training restaurant, an FM radio station, and even a TV studio. They pretty much have everything but a spaceship! In addition to the fantastic facilities, it places a strong emphasis on the arts. Students get to indulge in annual stage productions. Over the years, they’ve performed hits like "Grease", "Matilda", and "Seussical." Talk about a high school musical! But that’s not all! The International Student Program allows students from around the globe to experience Aussie education. The college's influence extends beyond borders with various overseas travel opportunities. And for the bookworms among you, Launceston College has published several fascinating documents about its history and milestones, including a centennial reflection titled "100 years of excellence: Launceston State High School to Launceston College 1913-2013." So, standing here, you're not just in front of a school, but a landmark rich in history, brimming with opportunities, and no short of a few surprises up its sleeve!

As you walk along, keep an eye to your left. You'll spot the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery - it's that striking building with a blend of classic and modern architectural styles. It's surrounded by lush greenery, making it quite the standout! Alright, now let’s dive into some fun facts about this grand place! The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, or QVMAG for short, is no ordinary museum. It's actually the largest museum in Australia that isn't in a capital city. Impressive, right? Imagine this - the foundation stone was laid way back on June 21, 1887, by the Mayor of Launceston, Robert Carter. Initially, Alexander Morton from the Hobart museum was the honorary curator when the museum opened in 1891. Then Herbert Hedley Scott took over in 1897. Fun twist - in 1926, the name was tweaked to avoid any mix-ups with the state of Victoria. This museum is packed with a dazzling array of colonial art, contemporary craft and design, and a deep dive into Tasmanian history and natural sciences. Look out for the zoology collection if you're an animal enthusiast! Feeling cultural? There's even a full Chinese temple here that was used by 19th-century Chinese tin miners. It’s like stepping back in time. Plus, there's a working planetarium and exhibits showcasing Launceston's industrial past and railway history. One of the remarkable items here is the Victoria Cross awarded to Lewis McGee. The museum’s collection is split between two locations - the Royal Park site and the Inveresk site, where the old Launceston Railway Workshops used to be. Oh, and they've published some fascinating journals on Tasmanian ecology and history, including the Records of the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. So, whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just curious, QVMAG definitely has something to tickle your fancy. Enjoy exploring!