Sistine of the south
Another unplanned detour had us stopping in Bairnsdale Victoria where we heard of a church who’s painted ceiling was the rival of the Vatican City’s Sistine Chapel. From the outside St Marys Church was already impressive, however. It wasn’t until we entered the church that the echoes of dropping jaws bounced off some of the most ornately decorated walls and ceilings of any space I have ever seen.
Step aside Michelangelo! The entire interior was painted by the Italian artist Francesco Floreani who migrated to Australia in 1927. While picking peas in the region Francesco met FR Cremin the churches priest at the time who had learned of the Italians talents and so commissioned him to begin works on painting the interior of the church.
Over a period of 4 years and completed in 2 stages Francesco Floreani had completed his masterpiece.
