St. Mary's Cathedral, Limerick
Munster
St. Mary's Cathedral in Limerick, Ireland, is a historic Church of Ireland cathedral dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Founded in 1168 by Domnall Mór Ua Briain, the last King of Munster, it stands on King's Island, the site of a former Viking meeting place and royal palace, parts of which are integrated into the cathedral's structure, notably the great west door. This door, historically used by bishops during installation ceremonies, bears marks from sieges where defenders sharpened weapons. The cathedral's 14th-century tower rises 36.58 meters and houses a peal of eight bells, some cast by renowned foundries in Loughborough and London. The interior features Ireland's only complete set of misericords and five chandeliers, with three gifted by the Limerick Corporation in 1759. The cathedral has endured significant historical events, including use as a stable during Cromwell's conquest and damage during the 1691 Williamite Siege, with cannonballs still visible in the Glentworth Chapel. Its limestone high altar, carved from a single block and reinstated in the 1960s, is the largest of its kind in Ireland and the UK. The cathedral remains a vibrant center for worship, music, and community events, welcoming visitors to explore its rich heritage and architectural beauty.
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Tip: Visit St. Mary's Cathedral between Monday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, with last admission at 3:30 pm. Sundays are reserved for worship services. It is advisable to check the official website for special event schedules and consider purchasing admission tickets in advance for group visits. The cathedral offers a peaceful environment for reflection and hosts magnificent choral concerts, making these events ideal times to experience its unique atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- •St. Mary's Cathedral houses the only complete set of misericords remaining in Ireland.
- •The great west door of the cathedral was originally the main entrance to the Viking royal palace on which the cathedral was built.
- •The tower contains eight bells, six cast by John Taylor & Co in Loughborough and two from Whitechapel, London.
- •Cannonballs from the 1691 Williamite Siege remain embedded in the Glentworth Chapel's walls.
- •The limestone high altar is the largest pre-Reformation altar in Ireland and the UK, carved from a single block.
History
St.
Mary's Cathedral was founded in 1168 on the site of a Viking royal palace, marking it as Limerick's oldest building still in use.
It became the cathedral church of the Diocese of Limerick following the 1111 Synod of Ráth Breasail.
The 14th-century saw the addition of its prominent tower.
Throughout its history, the cathedral has witnessed sieges, notably in 1691 during the Williamite War, and was temporarily used as a stable by Cromwellian forces in 1651.
The original high altar was removed during Cromwell's occupation and reinstated only in the 1960s.
Repairs funded by William of Orange followed the 1691 siege damage, preserving its historic fabric.
Place Guide
Great West Door12th century
Originally the main entrance to the Viking royal palace, this door is historically significant as the traditional entry point for bishops during their installation. It bears marks from sword and arrow sharpening during various city sieges.
14th-Century Tower14th century
Rising 36.58 meters, the tower contains a peal of eight bells used for ceremonial and musical purposes. It also features a stationary service bell rung from the ground floor.
Limestone High AltarPre-17th century
Carved from a single limestone block, this pre-Reformation altar is the largest in Ireland and the UK. Removed during Cromwell's occupation, it was reinstated in the 1960s and is used for communion during major festivals.
Glentworth Chapel (Saint George's Chapel)Late 17th century
This chapel contains cannonballs embedded in its walls from the 1691 Williamite Siege, serving as a historical reminder of the conflict's impact on the cathedral.
Contact
Phone: (061) 310 293
