St Patrick’s Cathedral Dublin

Places to See | Dublin, Ireland

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Built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral stands adjacent to the famous well where tradition has it Saint Patrick baptised converts on his visit to Dublin.  It is also known as The National Cathedral and Collegiate Church of Saint Patrick, Dublin.  Founded in 1191, it is the larger of Dublin’s two Church of Ireland cathedrals, and with its 43-metre (140 feet) spire is the largest church in Ireland.

Today the Cathedral, one of the most historic churches in Ireland, is a popular place to see in Dublin is open to all people as an architectural and historical site, but principally as a place of worship. Charges are made for those visiting for sightseeing and these contributions directly support the future of this holy and historic building.

The most famous person who held the office of Dean of the Cathedral was Jonathan Swift, who is one of 500 people buried either in the Cathedral or the adjoining graveyard.   The Organ of St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the largest in Ireland with over 4,000 pipes. Parts of it date from a Harris instrument of 1695.

The Cathedral receives no state funding, but is supported by a volunteer organisation, with both subscribing (annual and five-year) and Life members, who perform various tasks and contribute materially to the work and fabric of the cathedral. In addition, there are a range of voluntary groups performing specific tasks, such as bell-ringing, welcoming of guests and cleaning.

Address: St Patrick’s Cathedral Dublin, Saint Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8, Ireland

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