South Australia · Attraction
Catacomb Church
A church carved from desert
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Completed in 1977 and named after the underground churches of early Rome, the Catacomb Church is an Anglican place of worship entirely excavated from Coober Pedy's soft sandstone. Its cross, lectern and communion table are made from local mulga wood and a miner's winch, and the congregation has worshipped here for more than 50 years. Visitors are welcome any day of the week.
The story of the Catacomb Church begins in 1970, when the Reverend Barry Rainsford arrived as Coober Pedy's first resident Anglican minister. Services were held in a rectory dugout from 1973, but it was not until June 1977 that the church dugout itself was formally completed and dedicated. The Bush Church Aid Society, which has supported remote Australian communities since 1919, has staffed the congregation ever since.
Inside, the sandstone walls have been left largely unfinished, giving the space the texture of a cave while retaining the warmth of a chapel. A separate underground hall called Daniels Den was excavated in 1983 and is used for community events. The air temperature inside stays around 23 degrees throughout the year, making it a cool retreat even in mid-summer.
Entry is free and the church is open during daylight hours. Sunday services begin in the morning, and the resident missioner is often available to guide interested visitors through the history of the building.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Catacomb Church.
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