Stately homes

Researching the stately homes in this half of the state led to a couple of homes which could be yours, firstly - The Bishop's Palace, an important heritage listed landmark property of Australia's past, is currently for sale.

Situated in a beautiful botanical like garden setting of 3.6 acres (14,500m approx), this historic palace is uniquely placed in the heart of Ballarat's prime residential area. This property has only had 2 owners since it was constructed in 1876. Meticulously maintained with outstanding original decorative features. This stately residence offers grandeur, comfort and an enviable living environment.

It boasts a Reception hall, grand formal dining room, formal sitting room, family living room, 6 bedrooms, parents retreat, 6 bathrooms, 2 studies, kitchen, breakfast room, wine cellar, spa pavilion, and 3 garage spaces.

Making a grand entrance

The Bishops Palace was constructed in 1876-77 to designs by Melbourne architect Joseph Reed (1823 - 1890). Reed's buildings include the classical State Library of Victoria (1856), Collins Street Independent Church (1867), Frederick Sargood's Rippon Lea Estate (1868) and Melbourne Trades Hall (1873). 

It was built as the residence of Bishop Michael O’Connor – the first bishop of the Diocese of Ballarat – and to provide space for the diocesan headquarters. The Ballarat Diocese was the first Victorian diocese outside of Melbourne and had opened the St Patrick’s Cathedral down the street  just six years earlier.

The 2-storey Gothic bluestone mansion was built at a cost of £6,000. It was constructed by George Broom with internal plasterwork by William Taylor. It featured cast iron verandahs with ecclesiastical designs, a dining room that could seat fifty guests, and a private chapel with an Italian marble altar. The altar is inlaid in marble with the arms of the then Pope on one side and those of the Bishop on the other. The palace still bears the original stencilling across its walls, mahogany balustrades on staircases and even the original dining table.

The dining table which stays with the building

Grand entrance gates open to a winding driveway which leads through a formally landscaped area with mature trees and shrubs to the house. The land was originally on a larger 11 acre block which sloped down towards Lake Wendouree. Consequent subdividing over the years has whittled the block down to a still impressive 3.6 acres.

The six-bedroom home is no longer in the Church, who sold it to current owners Robert and Vikki Smith 20 years ago. The asking price is $6,500,000 so if you’re interested tenders close on the 14^th June.

Information and photos from PRD RealEstate