Hotels near St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Ireland

Being one of the oldest and biggest places of worship in Ireland, St. Patrick's Cathedral holds immense historical value for the city of Dublin. The cathedral marks the presumed location of St. Patrick's 5th century baptisms for converts and has served as a place of worship and civic life for over 800 years.

St. Patrick's Cathedral was the National Cathedral for the Church of Ireland and was the stage for several religious and state ceremonies of high significance.

Following the Reformation, the cathedral became Anglican, and played a pivotal role in reflecting the historical shifts that forever changed the landscape of Ireland. Today St. Patrick's Cathedral is a functioning church and global tourism experience that showcases the vast religious and cultural history of Dublin.

Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver's Travels, was the Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral from 1713 until his death in 1745, and his connection with the cathedral is of far reaching importance both culturally and historically. Swift was a writer, but also a potent voice within the political and religious life of Ireland who spoke out against English governance and advocated for Irish autonomy.

He is buried within St. Patrick's Cathedral alongside his friend Esther Johnson, whom he called “Stella", with his resting place being marked by a notable memorial.

His epitaph, which he wrote himself in Latin and evokes his personality and connection with Ireland, is on display for visitors to view. His legacy still lingers, elevating the cathedral beyond its role as a place of worship, and further emphasises its cultural and historic significance.

A number of distinctive artefacts from the cathedral's long and multifaceted past are on display within its grounds for visitors to explore and admire. One of the highlights that particularly stands out is the “Boyle Monument" - a large tomb of granite from the 17th century, made for Richard Boyle, the 1st Earl of Cork. Another one is the brass lectern in the shape of an eagle, signifying the Gospel of John.

There is also a medieval stone slab supposedly marking the well where St. Patrick baptized converts. Some personal items belonging to Jonathan Swift, such as written manuscripts and relics, are also part of the display.

The coats of arms belonging to the knights of St. Patrick, a chivalric order from the 18th century, can be viewed in the choir stalls of the cathedral. Collectively, these artefacts serve as a chronicle of the historic journey of Ireland, particularly its religious, literary, and political past, through their connection with this remarkable building.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral remains a functioning place of worship and actively provides religious services including daily prayers, Sunday Eucharist and choral evensong. Beyond its religious role it also hosts many concerts, lectures, and civic ceremonies.

Visitors can participate in a centuries-old musical tradition four times a week through performances by its world-famous choir. The cathedral forms part of Dublin’s cultural calendar, offering planned tours and hosting events such as exhibitions, and seasonal celebrations like Christmas carol services.

Occasionally, the space welcomes state events, interfaith services and memorials of national significance. Whether through musical recital or a traditional Anglican service, visitors experience a living institution which balances its sacred purpose with its cultural importance, a testament to its role in Dublin's contemporary life.

St. Patrick's Cathedral is an embodiment of Gothic architectural style, quite prevalent during the medieval period in Europe, exemplified in its pointed arches, rib vaults, flying buttresses and tall slender windows adorned with stained glass. Even though the building dates back to the 13th century, the majority of restoration work was done in the 19th century.

Upon entering the cathedral, visitors will see vaulted ceilings, some intricate stone carvings, and ornate choir stalls. One of the most distinct pieces of Gothic architecture, is the imposing spire that rises 43 meters (140 feet) and subtly emphasises the connection with god and the heavens.

The restorations done by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, in the 19th century, attempted to preserve these features while updating the integrity from a structural standpoint. The cathedral is an important part of Dublin's visual identity, with its grandeur and aesthetic symmetry being widely admired.