St George Cathedral
The Cathedral of Saint George is harmoniously set alongside the beautifully built Victorian Shephalbury Manor. It bears the name of the great martyr Saint George, who is one of the greatest intercessors amongst the Coptic faithful, as well as being the patron saint of England. While being the first Coptic Cathedral in the country, it is also the first purpose-built Coptic place of worship in the United Kingdom and the second throughout the whole of Europe.
Built in a characteristic cross shape and with traditional Coptic style and decoration, the cathedral is complimented by modern functionality which allows worshipers and visitors to enjoy a comfortable and uplifting spiritual experience.
The cathedral has distinctive Coptic elements such as a vaulted roof over the length of the structure and a traditional domed Coptic bell tower that is crowned with a Coptic Cross. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with an iconostasis (icon bearer) and intricate, hand-carved woodwork designed and prepared by skilled craftsmen in Egypt. It frames beautiful specially-commissioned traditional Coptic icons dedicated to the saints of the Church, creating an atmosphere of holiness within its quiet and peaceful surroundings, giving the feeling of heaven on earth.