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Cathedral Square in Christchurch is located in the downtown city center and is a major sightseeing destination of the city. Situated near the Christchurch Cathedral, the area has been named Cathedral Square. It is the center of ‘four avenues’ that form the boundaries of inner Christchurch. The area was to be named Ridley Square, after the Protestant martyr Nicholas Ridley. The development work began in the 1850’s and 1860’s. Work started in the Cathedral in 1862. Robert Godley’s (founder of the city) statue was built up in 1867. The central post office of the city developed near the square a few years later. The Cathedral square remained as one of the busiest convergence point. But the major routes were closed during the 1960’s and 1970’s and it now serves as an ideal path for pedestrians. Features of Cathedral Square in Christchurch: - The major attractions of Cathedral Square are Christchurch Cathedral, Christchurch Visitor Centre, Southern Encounter Aquarium, Cashel Street Shopping Mall and Christchurch Wizard and other live entertainment. - The Cathedral Square serves as the confluence point where people come together in perfect concord and harmony engaging in relaxing and cheerful conversations. - The Cathedral Square is wrapped in vibrancy and color with a wide variety of street performers and speakers. The noteworthy amongst them until recently was the Wizard of New Zealand. - The Cathedral boasts of a modern sculpture in the shape of an inverted cone since 2000, overturning the shape of the tower that rises above it. - The Cathedral was initially designed in the shape of a cross. Changes were made later, which altered its original shape drastically. - The square is dotted by several markets and food joints. Fast f acts of Cathedral Square in Christchurch: Address: Colombo Street Central City Christchurch, 8001 Telephone Number: +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Christchurch Information Centre) Neighborhood: Central City Nearest Station: Shuttle bus; Tramway
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