Guide to Belfast's Christian heritage launched

The historical and architectural importance of Belfast’s churches has been highlighted in a new visitor guide published by Belfast City Council.

‘Belfast’s Christian Heritage’ highlights around 30 of the city’s ecclesiastical buildings, with two suggested walking trails and a potted history of each. Four of the city’s most historic cemeteries also are highlighted.

The new guide, produced by Belfast City Council in conjunction with the Belfast Civic Trust and the Ulster Historic Churches Trust, is published just days after Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau launched its new £1.2 million marketing campaign to attract visitors to the city.

“People are coming to Belfast in ever increasing numbers, and they have many reasons for doing so,” said Councillor Nelson McCausland, Chairman of the council’s Tourism and Promotion of Belfast Sub-Committee.

“Among these reasons undoubtedly are Belfast’s rich culture and history – and our churches have an extremely important part to play in that culture and history. Belfast abounds with historic places of worship. Some date back more than 300 years, others are more contemporary – but all of them have their stories to tell.”

The Christian heritage guide, published as a pocket-sized map, recommends two walking trails, each including a wealth of ecclesiastical buildings and cemeteries. It also gives pointers to other churches not on the trails, to allow people to explore on their own.

”This new guide, while not definitive, affords an opportunity for all of us to explore our history and share in this pride,” Councillor McCausland added.

(MB/GMCG)