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St. Patrick's Cathedral

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St. Patrick's Cathedral (Ireland)

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St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin is the largest church in Ireland and serves as the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland. It was constructed between 1191 and 1270 on a site where Saint Patrick is believed to have baptized local converts in the 5th century. The current building is a magnificent example of English Gothic architecture, though it underwent an extensive restoration in the 1860s funded by Sir Benjamin Guinness. The cathedral is renowned for its historical associations, most notably with Jonathan Swift, the author of 'Gulliver's Travels,' who served as Dean from 1713 to 1745 and is buried on the premises. The interior contains over 200 monuments and plaques commemorating significant figures in Irish history. One unique feature is the 'Door of Reconciliation,' through which two feuding noble families reached a truce in 1492. Today, the cathedral is an animated cultural landmark known for its world-class choir and its role as a centerpiece for national commemorations and religious services.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C666811141515141187
Rain mm86707061677680917610210697

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The cathedral is open to visitors, admission is free. You can see the nave, chapels and the crypt.
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Typical hours
The cathedral is typically open daily from 9:00 to 17:00, with extended hours in summer. On Sundays and holidays access may be restricted.
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Photography
Photography is allowed without flash. During services, be discreet and refrain from taking photos.
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Time needed
Allow about one hour for the cathedral visit. Those wanting to climb the tower need about 90 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle, both within walking distance. Temple Bar district is also nearby.
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Getting there
The cathedral is located in central Dublin, near O'Connell Street. It is easily accessible by bus or on foot.
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Insider tip
Visit the cathedral in the late afternoon for a quieter atmosphere. The choral evensong at 17:30 is worth attending.

Geography

Coordinates
53.33970, -6.27440

Facts

  • Founded in 1191 on a site of ancient religious significance.
  • It features the tallest church spire in Ireland at 43 meters.
  • Jonathan Swift served as Dean here from 1713 to 1745.
  • The interior holds more than 200 historical monuments.
  • Benjamin Guinness funded a major restoration in the 1860s.
  • It is built next to a well where St. Patrick reportedly baptized people.

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

St. Nicholas of Myra

St. Nicholas of Myra is a church in Dublin.

Saint Patrick's Cathedral

Saint Patrick's Cathedral is a cathedral in Dublin.

🕒 Mo-Fr 09:30-17:00; Sa 09:00-17:00; Su 09:00-10:30,13:00-14:3💶

Saint Patrick's Well

Saint Patrick's Well is a historic well in Dublin.

Saint Patrick's Park🌳 park

Saint Patrick's Park is a park in Dublin.

Liberty Bell

Liberty Bell is a public artwork.

Havel's Place

Havel's Place is a monument in Dublin.

Marsh's Library

Marsh's Library is a historic library in Dublin.

Hen's Teeth

Hen's Teeth is an arts centre in Dublin.

The Cabbage Garden🌳 park

The Cabbage Garden is a cemetery on Cathedral Lane in Dublin.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the cathedral founded?
It was founded in 1191 on the site of a holy well.
Who is buried here?
Jonathan Swift, author of 'Gulliver's Travels', was Dean here and is buried on site.
Is admission free?
No, there is an admission fee which goes towards the upkeep of the building.
What is the 'Door of Reconciliation'?
A wooden door with a hole through which two feuding lords shook hands for peace.
Are there choir performances?
Yes, the world-famous choir performs daily during service times.
St. Patrick's Cathedral: where is it located?
St. Patrick's Cathedral is located in Ireland, Ireland.
St. Patrick's Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pallas Studios, St. Nicholas of Myra, Saint Patrick's Cathedral.
St. Patrick's Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
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