by Lucinda Garbutt-Young (edited version)
October 15, 2024
A grand house used as a monastery for almost than 50 years has come on the market, giving Canberrans a unique look inside for one of the first times in decades.
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| The property has lovely gardens and a well-kept interior. Picture supplied |
Located on Canberra's golden mile, 28 Mugga Way has been used as a place of reflection and worship.
But, like most historic Red Hill properties, that doesn't preclude it from beauty.
The eight bedroom, six bathroom home is made of brick, with dark timber features throughout.
Tudor-style panelling on the walls, ornate fire places and diamond lead-light windows are markers of this historic space.
The property was used as a monastery by Canberra's Carmelite Sisters from 1975 until earlier this year.
Carmelite nuns practised a life of contemplation and prayerfulness in the monastery.
A reading room towards the centre of the house is evidence of this, as is a simple chapel, which was added to the building after it was turned into a monastery.
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| The chapel is a unique feature of the property. Picture supplied |
The house has history dating back even before the Carmelite nuns moved in.
It was built by journalist Joe Alexander in 1936.
Former prime minister William Hughes sold Alexander - who was known as the king of the press gallery - the land to build on.
Alarmingly, in the right circumstances, the house may be demolished to make use of the land.
First published at The Canberra Times, October 15, 2024
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