Parramatta’s spiritual landscape reflects its deep historical roots and cultural diversity, highlighted by several significant places of worship. The iconic St John’s Anglican Cathedral, completed in 1802, is the oldest church in Parramatta. Its towers, inspired by the church at Reculver in England, were built during Governor Macquarie’s era, following a suggestion by his wife, Elizabeth. Nearby lies the historic St John’s Cemetery on O’Connell Street, preserving the area’s early colonial history.

Another landmark is St Patrick’s Cathedral, one of Australia’s oldest Catholic churches. Initial construction began in 1836, and although completed in 1837, expansions and additions continued into the late 19th century. The cathedral suffered a devastating fire in 1996, leaving only its stone walls standing. The rebuilt cathedral was dedicated in 2003, serving as a spiritual home for a growing Catholic community. Its historic cemetery is located in North Parramatta.

Parramatta also hosts the Leigh Memorial Church of the Uniting Church and the Parramatta Salvation Army, one of Australia’s longest-running Salvation Army corps. The Jewish community is served by the Parramatta and Districts Synagogue, catering to western Sydney’s Jewish population.

Reflecting Parramatta’s multicultural fabric, the Greek Orthodox Parish of St Ioannis (St John the Forerunner) was established in 1960. Initially holding services in Harris Park, the community moved to a dedicated church building in Hassall Street in 1966 before relocating in 2014 to George and Purchase Streets. This parish supports over 5,000 Greek Orthodox faithful in the region.

Other religious communities include a Buddhist temple on Cowper Street and a Mosque located in an apartment building on Marsden Street. The district is further enriched by the presence of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu temple in Rosehill and the Murugan Hindu temple in Mays Hill, serving the Hindu population of Greater Western Sydney.

Together, these places of worship highlight Parramatta’s historical significance and its ongoing role as a vibrant centre for diverse religious and cultural communities.