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St. Mary's Cathedral

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St. Mary's Cathedral (Ireland)

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Saint Mary's Cathedral in Limerick is the city's oldest building still in continuous use. Established in 1168, it was built on the site of a former Viking palace and the castle of Domnall Mór Ua Briain, the last King of Munster, who donated the land to the church. The cathedral is a premier example of medieval architecture, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles. It is particularly famous for its 15th-century misericords, intricately carved oak choir stalls, which are the only complete set remaining in Ireland. Over the centuries, the cathedral endured numerous conflicts, including the Siege of Limerick in 1691, with cannonball marks still visible on its sturdy walls. Today, it serves as the seat of the Bishop of Limerick and Killaloe and remains a spirited center for worship and community events. Standing prominently on King's Island by the River Shannon, the cathedral is a testament to nearly 850 years of Limerick's religious and civic history, surviving reformations and civil wars.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C556811141515131086
Rain mm1048177687683929682101119112

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
St. Mary’s Cathedral is an active place of worship open to visitors except during services. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.
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Typical hours
The cathedral is usually open daily from 9:00 to 17:00. Sundays and holidays may have different hours; best to check ahead.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed inside. Some artworks and altars may not be photographable - please follow signs.
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Time needed
A visit to the cathedral takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Take time to explore the chapter house and cloister.
Combine with
The cathedral is in Limerick's old town, near King John’s Castle and Thomond Bridge. The Milk Market is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The cathedral is walkable from Limerick Colbert railway station. Paid parking and car parks are available nearby.
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Insider tip
Look for the old church tower bell that is still rung. Visit the graveyard behind the cathedral for quiet moments.

Geography

Coordinates
52.66250, -8.62930

Facts

  • Founded in 1168 by Domnall Mór Ua Briain, the last King of Munster.
  • It is the oldest building in Limerick city still serving its original purpose.
  • Houses the only medieval carved misericords (choir seats) surviving in Ireland.
  • The cathedral's belfry stands 120 feet (36 meters) tall.
  • The west door was once the main entrance to the 12th-century royal palace.
  • Bullet and cannonball marks from the 1691 Siege of Limerick are still visible.

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Sights in the town St. Mary's Cathedral (10)

Saint Augustine's Church

Church in Limerick, County Limerick, Ireland. Augustinian place of worship, used for services and prayer.

Richard Harris Memorial

Memorial to actor Richard Harris, born in Limerick. Commemorates his life and career.

Limerick Museum🏛 museum

Museum partnership. Displays local history, art and culture in Limerick.

🕒 Mo-Fr 10:00-17:00🆓

Saint Saviour's Church

Church in Limerick, County Limerick, Ireland. Dominican church, a place for worship and community.

The Belltable

Arts centre in Limerick with a stage for theatre, dance and music performances.

Saint Michael's

Church in Limerick, Ireland. Neo-Gothic parish church serving the local community.

Ormston House Art Gallery

Gallery in Limerick, showcasing contemporary art and hosting exhibitions.

Limerick City Gallery of Art

Gallery in Limerick, presenting rotating art exhibitions.

Leamy House🏛 museum

Building in Limerick, housing exhibitions on the city's history.

O' Connell Monument

Monument to Daniel O'Connell, Irish politician, located in Limerick.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is St. Mary's Cathedral in Limerick?
It was founded in 1168 and is the oldest building in continuous use in Limerick.
Does visiting the cathedral cost an admission fee?
Yes, a small fee (approx. 5 Euro) is charged to help maintain the historic building.
Can visitors enter during services?
Tourist sightseeing is not permitted during services, but visitors are welcome to join for prayer.
What is special about the misericords?
The cathedral has the only surviving medieval misericords (carved wooden seats) in Ireland.
Are there guided tours in the cathedral?
Self-guided tour leaflets are available, and volunteers are often on site to answer questions.
St. Mary's Cathedral: where is it located?
St. Mary's Cathedral is located in Ireland.
St. Mary's Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint Augustine's Church, Richard Harris Memorial, Limerick Museum.
St. Mary's Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
St. Mary's Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?
Saint Mary's Cathedral in Limerick is the city's oldest building still in continuous use.
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