Christ Church Cathedral

• By: Dublin Doer
• On: 03/11/2008 16:09:38
• In: Dublin Things to do and see
• Comments: 0

Christ Church Cathedral should be part of everyone's itinerary when visiting Dublin. The Cathedral is in a commanding position in the centre of the old part of the city of Dublin. It is possibly the citys finest historic building and certainly its best known landmark. Christ Church is officially known as The Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. King Sitric built a wooden church on this site in 1038. Strongbow rebuilt it in stone in 1171.

The present cathedral is the result of a major restructuring which was completed in 1878. The transept and crypt of the original building remain. The grandeur of the stonework with splendid arches and supporting columns alone are worth a visit. The arched building that joins the Cathedral to the former Synod Hall at the other side of a main thoroughfare. The old Synod Hall now houses the Dublinia and The Viking World heritage centre.

But there is much more, so much more to Christ Church than structures.

The Crypt As mentioned the original crypt survives from medieval times and is in fact the oldest structure in Dublin. The treasures on exhibition in this vast crypt include important ancient manuscripts in the archives and a Silver Exhibition which includes chalices, patens and other hallowed items dating back to the middle of the 17th century.

The Choir For lovers of church music the Cathedrals wonderful choir are a joy to listen to. The choir has long been regarded as one of Ireland's finest and has toured extensively in Ireland and round the world. Theyve also been broadcast on RTE and BBC and you can enjoy them as they perform at services five times per week or with a little luck at a live classical music event at the cathedral.

The Bells The bells have their own history dating back to 1420 which resound in peals over the city centre for Sunday services. Visitors are welcome in the belfry for Friday evening practice.

Strongbow There is also the striking effigy in which Strongbow the Norman Knight who led the conquering Norman invasion of Ireland.

Services Christ Church Cathedral is the mother church for the Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough of the Church of Ireland. Visitors of all denominations are welcome to attend the services. Sunday services are at 10.00 and 14.30.

Visit the Christ Church Cathedral site