Saint George’s Round Church was built in 1800 to accommodate the growing congregation of the Little “Dutch” Church. It was designed under the supervision of Edward, Duke of Kent, father of Queen Victoria. Up until 1827 it functioned as a German-speaking church, but due to the difficulty of finding a German speaking Lutheran pastor, it became an Anglican parish.

Saint George’s is a masterpiece of the style of 16th century Italian architect Andrea Palladio. Palladio was part of the Renaissance movement which looked to the classical symmetry of the Greeks and Romans and the ultimate form, the circle. It is the only remaining round wooden church in North America and has been described as a “three tiered wedding cake”. Originally a perfect circle, a chancel, vestry, organ loft, and porch were added later.

In 1994, more than one third of the building was destroyed by fire. A massive fundraising campaign ensued to pay for the building’s restoration. Reconstructing the Church using traditional methods consistent with its original construction was a challenge, but amazingly materials and crafts people were all found in Nova Scotia, and the bulk of the restoration has now been completed. Services are held regularly at the Church and it remains an excellent venue for concerts and recitals. It has been designated a National Heritage Site.

Hours:
Sunday Services
8:00 AM Holy Communion
10:30 Choral Communion
4:00 PM evensong in the Little Dutch Church
930 PM Choral Service

Heritage tours during summer months
Father Gary Thorne
Phone: (902) 425-3658