It is a well-known fact that Ireland is known as the Land of saints and scholars. As many of the famous saints like St. Patrick and St.Brigid are from this gorgeous island which in turn has resulted in many wonderful architectural buildings all around the country. Over the years great efforts are made to preserve these centuries-old cathedrals and other monuments. Dublin, the capital of this evergreen Island is dotted with numerous beautiful monuments and visiting these is worth every penny. During my visit last summer, I toured two of the amazing cathedrals in the city and was mesmerized by the intricate details and spectacular colors inside the cathedrals. Don’t forget to check out the artifacts from medieval times which are blended so well with the modern ones after the renovation.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Built in the dedication of Ireland’s patron Saint Patrick in 1191 this cathedral an exemplary structure with a lasting beauty which was built in the Gothic architectural style and is the largest cathedral in Ireland. This is also the National Cathedral of Ireland and the tallest cathedral with its 43-meter spire. As per the legend, Saint Patrick used a nearby well to baptize and a small church was built in the location noting it is a sacred place. The current structure of the cathedral dates back to 1220, which over the centuries has survived revolutions, reformations and numerous wars.
The origin of the famous phrase “To chance your arm” started here at this cathedral in 1492 when two Irish families entered the cathedral and got into an argument through the chapter house door. In the end, the two families made peace when one of them offered to end the fight by putting his arm through a hole in the door to shake hand with the other. The original door is still on display inside this cathedral.
There is an amazing display of flags remembering the former Irish regiments of the British Army and the colors of these flags are allowed to slowly fade away in the memory of all those who fought the wars under them.
Christ Church Cathedral
Another impressive cathedral of Dublin which stands in the heart of the medieval city of Dublin, overlooking the city is this 11th century Christ Church Cathedral. This cathedral was first built by Hiberno-Norse king Sitric Silkenbeard in 1030AD which was rebuilt by the Anglo-Normans and restored extensively in the 1870s. The current structure of the cathedral is an intriguing blend of materials and artifacts from original 12th and 13th century recreated in Victorian Gothic style.
The most interesting part of this cathedral is its underground crypt which dates back to either 11th or 12th century. It is said that this is not only the oldest structure in Dublin but also the largest crypt in Britain and Ireland, which stretches entirely underneath the church. This is mainly made up of strong rough stone pillars which carry the weight of the cathedral and the central tower and houses many historic artifacts.
Hope you enjoyed reading about the cathedrals of Dublin. Do let us know what you think about them and leave us suggestions in the comments below about other must-visit cathedrals and monuments in Dublin and around.
Dublin has intrigued me since a long time. I enjoy visiting cathedrals especially if they have historical significance. The underground crypt sounds exciting. I would love to explore it.
Same goes with us Abhinav, love to know the history associated with the cathdral..:)
The spiral staircase at St. Patrick’s Cathedral is unbelievable! There is so much history and great architecture. I’d love to bring my family to Dublin someday and we’ll keep these cathedrals in mind!
These cathedrals are the beautiful and historically imporatnt ones Marcie, you cant miss them.. 🙂
Wow this underground crypt looks so intriguing.. And the church is so beautiful. I would love to explore it whenever I will visit Dublin.
Thank you Judy:)
The architecture of these cathedrals is amazing. I’m sure the crypt holds many secrets too. The story behind “To chance your arm” is also interesting.
Yes, that caught my attention Sara..:)
Great cathedrals, Awesome pics.
Thank you Rupam..
St. Cathedral seems to be an architectural marvel. I specifically loved the spiral staircase with beautifully carved pillars and the glass painted windows. Interesting story of to chance your arm. Thanks for sharing
Thank you 🙂
I’ve not been to Dublin yet and it’s interesting to read about a different subject from there, the cathedrals! I love photographing cathedrals. I’m not sure if they look better on the exterior or interior. The underground crypts look very interesting and spooky too!
Thank you James, Its always the interior of a cathedral excites us with its incrite and rich details
The spiral staircase leading to the organ is out of this world. This type of architectural delights really speaks to me. Thanks a lot for sharing the beautiful post, girls!
Thank you Antonina, hope you enjoyed reading our post 🙂
Like a lot of cities throughout Dublin, it is full of churches. Love all the history that comes along with it.
That’s true Dominic..
I am in awe of the floor tiles in the cathedral! They are so colourful. The display of flags gradually fading in remembrance of the soldiers are so unique. This is a lovely post.
Thank you Amrita…:)
Wish we’d known about these before, we just visited the Guinness museum and got drunk when we went!
Ha ha, that’s one more way of having fun in Dublin Shannon 😉
Nothing beats old buildings that have stood tall and almighty for centuries. These Cathedrals of Dublin are simply mesmerising from the inside and out and it is pleasing to read that the effort has been put in to preserve such heritage. May it last.
We hope the same Anthony..:)
I am very fond of cathedrals and Dublin surely has beautiful ones. The mosaic tiles and glass art got my eye.
Even we were mesmerized by the beauty and colors of the tiles…
It always feels surreal to read about European destinations because of how old everything is compared to where I’m from (the US). I can’t believe some of those cathedrals date back to the 11th century! They’re all so stunning and unique in their own way.
Thats true Kim…:)
Your article brings back my memories of my Dublin visit. I love visiting places of worship of countries I visit. I loved your detailed description of beautiful historical cathedrals. Both have impressive architecture and beautiful tile flooring. Thanks for sharing!
Places of worship has some kind of peace inside and that is why we love to visit them and speand some time inside…:)
I’ve only ever spent a day in Dublin but I would love to go back and explore some more! Especially the architecture! Looks stunning
Thank you Chiera..
That’s a nice cathedral. What’s most striking for us is the spiral staircase. Very interesting. The stained glass windows remind us of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. 🙂
Thank you Adrenaline…
Somehow I missed the whole of Ireland when I was in UK. I know, its a shame… So thanks for this virtual tour. A cathedral built in 1200s, I’d totally love to visit it.
Thank you so much Bhushavali… 🙂
This cathedral definitely seems like a must visit place. I loved the glass windows. Is it open every day?
Yes, it is…:)
Nice series of pictures! Looks like a very interesting church! I love the door where you have to shake hands 🙂
Thank you ..:)
Wow the place looks so serene and peaceful.beautiful pics.
Thank you Madhu..:)
Amazing architecure..loving the mosaic tiles…Dublin is on our wishlist…hopefully sometime soon! Thanks for the post…definitely bookmark worthy
Thank you so much..:)