A beautiful chapel at New Norcia
By Judy Evans
@JudyEv (362236)
Rockingham, Australia
September 1, 2025 9:28pm CST
The monastic town of New Norcia in Western Australia consists of over sixty buildings, twenty-eight of which are heritage-listed. There are now only seven monks in residence and much of the administration has been taken over by volunteers. There are regular retreats and workshops held there.
Coming into the town is like suddenly coming upon a new world. The imposing Spanish-style buildings are unlike anything else for miles around.
The once-thriving boarding schools, St Gertrude's and St Ildephonsus, are still used to accommodate visitors, groups and various social functions. St Gertrude’s girls’ school catered for over 100 students.
Both boarding houses have beautiful chapels with all the work being done by the monks. The woodwork and carving has been done by a master as has the painting and decorations. The photo shows St Gertrude’s chapel.
9 people like this
9 responses
@Juliaacv (54811)
• Canada
5h
@JudyEv I remember when we had the church painted once.
My Dad took me over to the church for something, and even though it was 'closed' for that work, the priest lead us over and I saw how the scaffolding was set up and the painters worked while lying on their backs.
1 person likes this
@FourWalls (78350)
• United States
12h
Gorgeous painting on the ceiling!
I had to look up St. Ildephonsus. Seems he’s been forgotten by most of the world. A 7th century monk, so yes, it’s understandable.
2 people like this
@LindaOHio (199578)
• United States
2h
The chapel is lovely. I hope you and your hubby have a great day.
1 person likes this
