St Patrick’s Cathedral

Saint Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland

The Dublin audio-guided tour stops you before Saint Patrick's Cathedral, approached with quiet respect. The seat of Anglican worship in Ireland, it was built on the site of an old place of worship dating back to the fifth century.

The well of Saint Patrick

Irish accounts tell that in the year 450, Saint Patrick used a well located on the site of the present cathedral to baptise several of his disciples, among the first Irish converts to Christianity. Ireland was then mainly pagan, and Saint Patrick's mission was to evangelise the population. The well was credited with miraculous powers, said to purify soul and body.

What there is to see

The cathedral, in Gothic style, is the largest church in Ireland. With respect for silence, you admire its nave, its stained glass and many funerary monuments, including that of the writer Jonathan Swift, long dean of the cathedral. Saint Patrick's Park, which borders it, offers a pleasant setting for a walk around the building.

Practical information

Saint Patrick's Cathedral is on Saint Patrick's Close, in the heart of Dublin. An active Anglican place of worship, it can be visited with respect for silence and services; tourist admission is charged and opening times vary with celebrations. The neighbouring park is freely accessible.

What link does the cathedral have with Saint Patrick?

According to tradition, Saint Patrick used in the year 450 a well located on this site to baptise his first Irish disciples. The cathedral was built on this ancient place of worship.

Who rests in Saint Patrick's Cathedral?

The writer Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels and long dean of the cathedral, rests there, among many funerary monuments.