Dominating the skyline on all approaches to the city of Londonderry is Saint Columb’s Cathedral, which has stood on its prominent site inside the famous walls of Derry since 1633.
The Cathedral is dedicated to the name of Saint Columba (Columb) who established a Christian settlement here in the sixth century. The Cathedral was built of stone from local quarries and skilled stone cutters and masons had to be procured. The old pillars and arches bear testimony to sound judgement and first-rate craftsmanship.
During the last 30 years of civil unrest, the Cathedral has become a focus for inter-community activities and is the most popular place to visit in Derry City. According to figures published by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the Cathedral is actually the second most popular destination in the country.
As you enter the Cathedral and proceed up the Nave you can see the splendid ceiling put on in 1887. The corbels represent the various heads of Bishops and Deans over the years.
A fine example of the churches and monasteries of Ireland, Restoration of St. Columb’s Cathedral commenced in February 2010 and was completed in June 2011. The Cathedral is now fully reopened and tours of the Cathedral and Chapter House Museum have resumed.
Address: Saint Columb’s Cathedral, London Street, Derry, Co.Londonderry BT48 6RQ
Sponsored by Derry City & Strabane District Council
Antrim is the county town of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. Antrim is a small town not frequently visited by tourists, yet it is one of the more historic towns in Northern Ireland with many interesting sights and buildings of historic note.
One Response to Saint Columb’s Cathedral