5 Catholic Churches To Explore When Visiting Ireland
(TRAVEL) Ireland is a European country that offers tourists a captivating blend of stunning landscapes and a rich history, making it an incredibly fun place to visit.
While the breathtaking green scenery of the Irish countryside is the stuff most people imagine before their trip, its large cities like Dublin, Galway and Cork that can also offer up some memorable experiences. This is especially true if you like history and art.
Ireland has also traditionally been a very Catholic nation, although recent trends and growth of secularization in the Emerald Isle have certainly made it a different place in recent years. Nonetheless, the country is still home to many churches, monasteries and sacred spaces.
READ: 5 Things You Didn't Know About The Feast Of St. Patrick
The country’s many Catholic churches — some 4,000 in all — offers a captivating journey through Ireland's rich religious heritage dating back centuries.
With St. Patrick’s Day on the horizon and people celebrating all things Irish this month, here’s a look at five churches visitors must visit when they travel to Ireland.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin
Standing as one of Dublin's most iconic landmarks, St. Patrick's Cathedral holds a significant place in the country’s history and culture.
Built in honor of Ireland's patron saint, this majestic house of worship features stunning Gothic architecture, towering spires and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral's quiet atmosphere offers a tranquil escape from Dublin’s busy streets.
Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
Another gem nestled in central Dublin is Christ Church Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
Dating back over 1,000 years, this church showcases a unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Visitors can visit its crypt — the largest in Ireland — and the artifacts and treasures that go with exploring these passageways.
St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny
Venture outside of Dublin to Kilkenny, where St. Canice's Cathedral stands as a testament to Ireland's medieval past.
Built in the 13th century, this church is renowned for its stunning Norman architecture and ancient round tower.
St. Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick
Situated on the River Shannon, St. Mary's Cathedral is one of Ireland's most-famous architectural marvels.
Dating back to the 12th century, this church features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles and marvelous stained-glass windows.
St. Michan’s Church, Dublin
Located in the heart of Dublin's historic Smithfield neighborhood, St. Michan’s Church is among the country’s oldest (it dates back to the 11th century).
Considered a hidden gem and also known for its crypts, where visitors can explore its eerie corridors that serves as an ancient burial site. This Gothic church is a place visitors must visit should they make their way to Ireland.
Clemente Lisi is the executive editor of Religion Unplugged. He previously served as deputy head of news at the New York Daily News and a longtime reporter at The New York Post. Follow him on X @ClementeLisi.