Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral Receives Long-Awaited Grade I Listing

On June 17, 2025, Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was officially upgraded to Grade I listed status, a recognition that many believe is long overdue. This architectural marvel, designed by Frederick Gibberd and completed in 1967, stands as a testament to post-war modernism and is regarded as one of the most original and prominent Catholic cathedrals in the United Kingdom.

The cathedral, often described as a 'cosmic wigwam', has faced criticism since its inception. Classicists have lamented the replacement of Edwin Lutyens’ uncompleted baroque design, while modernists have deemed Gibberd’s creation as overly delicate compared to bolder international counterparts. However, time has proven the cathedral's merit, as it now represents a unique fusion of history and modernity.

According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Architectural History at the University of Liverpool, "The cathedral not only serves as a religious space but also as a crucial public forum, bridging the old with the new in its innovative design. It reflects the ambitions of a city reborn from the ashes of World War II."

The structure’s design integrates the unfinished crypt of Lutyens’ earlier project, utilizing its brick-and-stone vaulting as a robust foundation for Gibberd’s striking white tent-like pavilion, which is made of reinforced concrete and clad in Portland stone. The cathedral’s soaring conical shape, supported by slender radial ribs and flying buttresses, culminates in a remarkable 2,000-tonne lantern—a stained glass masterpiece that crowns the building.

"The great cathedrals of Christendom are generally crowns of urban composition," Gibberd noted. With the Anglican cathedral’s tower already a defining feature of Liverpool’s skyline, Gibberd sought to create a complementary structure, thus establishing a unique architectural topography for the city.

Inside, visitors encounter a dramatic interplay of light and color, as electric blue and pink hues wash over the interior through the stained glass windows. The circular layout of the cathedral, a departure from traditional cruciform designs, was influenced by the Second Vatican Council, which emphasized the importance of accessibility and visibility in worship. This is reflected in the central altar crafted from a single 19-tonne slab of white marble from North Macedonia, under which hangs a modern baldacchino made of aluminum rods.

Despite its innovative design, the cathedral has faced challenges, including leaks in the aluminum roof and detaching glass mosaic tiles shortly after opening. These issues led to an out-of-court settlement of £1.3 million for the archdiocese. Nonetheless, the recent Grade I listing is hoped to secure the future of this architectural gem, ensuring that it remains a marvel for generations to come.

In the words of Oliver Wainwright, architecture critic at The Guardian, "This upgraded status is a recognition of the cathedral's importance not just to Liverpool, but to modern architectural heritage as a whole. It represents a turning point in how we value post-war architecture, which has often been overlooked in favor of more traditional styles."

As Liverpool continues to evolve, the Metropolitan Cathedral stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation, embodying the spirit of a city that has embraced its complex history while looking forward to the future. The architectural community and the public alike await further developments that will ensure the preservation and appreciation of this iconic structure.