An early morning walk is often the best way to see a place.
This morning I was able to spend an interesting hour wandering the empty streets of Launceston before getting ready for our prime job here in Tasmania – wine tasting!
There are quite a few churches in Launceston, but this was my favourite. This was located just across from Princes Square, and I don’t even think it is even a church any longer. The way the faded paint work looked like early in the morning light was very cool and eerie.
On the same intersection near Princes Square was this building; looking very well cared for and still well used.
The next two buildings are located across the road from each other – one is the newspaper building for the “Examiner and Express”, but I am unsure what the other was once upon a time – but the architecture and details in both was very impressive.
I found two more churches on my walk, but despite it being a Sunday morning, neither was busy with parishioners. Perhaps I was too early.
The central part of the city contains many examples of architecture from the 18th and 19th Century. Some have been beautifully maintained, but others not so much.
Many of the street level parts of these buildings were heavily graffitied, but it didn’t really detract too much from their character.
While looking for our car hire place, I walked passed this building – St Albies Hall. Mick had spent a couple of years when we were at university in Armidale (NSW) living in a college called Albies (short for St Albert’s). I couldn’t not stop and take a photo!
Now it isn’t only buildings this city is keen to preserve. I walked passed this showroom filled with old collectable Holden cars. My photo sadly does not do justice to all the old cars proudly standing in this showroom.
While I do think Launceston is trying hard to preserve its history, I have concluded that it has not always been successful. The following is an example of trying very hard, but MISSING.
This looks hideous.
Finally, we had been told by the taxi driver who brought us to our accommodation, that the street we are staying in has amongst the most expensive homes in Launceston. This one is across the road from us, and apparently recently sold for $3+ Million.
Launceston is a pretty cool city!
Jane and Mick's Holiday Adventures 