St. Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh
Ulster
St. Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh is a Church of Ireland cathedral and the seat of the Anglican Archbishop of Armagh. The site is traditionally believed to have been founded by St. Patrick in the 5th century on what was originally a pagan sanctuary. Over centuries, it became the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and a major monastic school. The cathedral was the seat of the Catholic Archbishop before the Reformation, after which it became Anglican. It has undergone numerous rebuilds and restorations, notably in the 19th century by architect Lewis Nockalls Cottingham, preserving much medieval fabric alongside Celtic and medieval carvings. The cathedral hosts significant sculptures by artists such as Francis Leggatt Chantrey and Louis-François Roubiliac. It remains an active religious and cultural site with a historic choral foundation dating back to the Culdees. Notable burials include Brian Boru, High King of Ireland.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening times and consider attending a choral service to experience the cathedral's renowned choir tradition. The best time to visit is during spring and summer months for pleasant weather and extended daylight. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the cathedral's rich history and art. Discounts may be available for groups and students.
Interesting facts
- •Brian Boru, High King of Ireland, is buried at the cathedral after his death in 1014.
- •The cathedral was rebuilt or repaired at least 17 times due to fires and wars.
- •The 19th-century restoration by Lewis Nockalls Cottingham was considered antiquarian and preserved medieval architectural details.
- •The cathedral houses sculptures by notable artists including Francis Leggatt Chantrey and Louis-François Roubiliac.
- •The choral foundation of the cathedral dates back to the Culdees and continues today with a choir of gentlemen and boy choristers.
- •Maundy Money was distributed at the cathedral in 2008, commemorated by a plaque in the south aisle.
History
The site of St.
Patrick's Cathedral dates back to a 5th-century church founded by St.
Patrick, originally a pagan sanctuary.
It became a key monastic center by the 7th century and was acknowledged as Ireland's ecclesiastical capital in 1111.
The cathedral was rebuilt multiple times after fires and wars, including significant damage during the Nine Years' War.
Following the Reformation, it became part of the Church of Ireland.
The current structure largely reflects 19th-century restoration efforts led by Archbishop Lord John George Beresford and architect Lewis Nockalls Cottingham, who preserved medieval elements while restoring the building.
Place Guide
Nave and West Door19th century restoration
The nave features carefully restored medieval tracery and original capital decorations on pillars near the West Door, showcasing Gothic architectural elements.
Sculptures and CarvingsVarious, 18th and 19th centuries
Inside the cathedral, visitors can view a rich collection of Celtic and medieval carvings alongside 18th- and 19th-century sculptures by artists such as Francis Leggatt Chantrey and Louis-François Roubiliac.
Choral FoundationFounded in early medieval period; ongoing
Dating from the Culdees, the choral foundation is one of the oldest continuous musical traditions in the cathedral, consisting of a dozen Gentlemen of the Lay Vicars Choral and sixteen boy choristers.
Contact
Phone: 028 3752 2813
