St. Patricks Cathedral
The Cathedral stands on the oldest Christian site in Dublin where, it is said, the Saint baptised converts to the Christian faith in a well beside the building. Because of this sacred association with St. Patrick, a church has stood here since 450 A.D. In 1191 that old church was replaced by the present building, the largest church in Ireland, which as well as being a Cathedral, became the first University of Ireland (1320–1520).The famous Jonathan Swift who was Dean of St. Patrick’s (1713–1745), is buried in the Cathedral. Swift’s pulpit, table and chair and the scroll he received when honoured as a Freeman of the City of Dublin are here.
Also to be found are old Celtic gravestones, medieval brasses and tiles, and the medieval Chapter House door with a hole in it, dating from 1492 which gave the phrase "chancing your arm" to the English language. The Huguenots worshipped in the Cathedral from 1666–1816. The Choir School was founded in 1432 and the Cathedral Choir took part in the first performance of Handel’s Messiah in 1742. The massive West Tower dates from 1370 and houses the largest ringing peal of bells in Ireland. For times of services please consult the cathedral tourist desk.
Location. Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8.
Bus. 78A from Aston Quay and 50 from Eden Quay.
Phone. +353 1 4754817 / Office. 453 9472
Fax. +353 1 4546374
Opening Hours. Monday – Friday 9am-5pm. Weekend times vary according to season (see website).
