Top 10 Must-Visit Churches in Ireland

Visiting churches in Ireland? If so, you want to experience the best. However, choosing among the myriad of options can be overwhelming, as church buildings grace nearly every corner of the nation. Ireland, often referred to as the land of saints and scholars, boasts an array of church styles from early medieval structures to more modern designs. Consequently, the following churches provide an impressive overview of the diverse architectural styles available throughout Ireland.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin

Address: Saint Patrick’s Close, Dublin, D08 H6X3, Ireland

Phone: +353 1 453 9472

Churches in Ireland do not come any larger than this—Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest church in the country. It holds the distinction of being the only Irish cathedral without a bishop and has been deemed the “National Cathedral of Ireland” by the Church of Ireland to thwart any Catholic takeover attempts. Apart from its majestic exterior, visitors are drawn to the historic tombs and statues, including the graves of Jonathan Swift and his cherished friend Stella.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Address: Ballycullen Avenue, Tymon South, Dublin 24, Ireland

Phone: +353 1 452 4702

The Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church is renowned for housing the relics of Saint Valentine. However, this is not the sole reason for its appeal. The church, although resembling a fortress from the exterior, delights visitors with its vibrant interior adorned with colorful decorations and statues.

Saint Kevin’s Kitchen in Glendalough

This church, characterized by its small round tower, is a complete monument located in Glendalough, County Wicklow. The distinctive tower resembles a chimney, leading to the church’s nickname “kitchen.” Though not open to the public, visitors can test the extraordinary acoustics through the gate that secures the interior.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedrals in Armagh

Address: 40 Upper English Street, Armagh BT61 7BA, UK

Phone: +44 7861 729868

Dominating the “Cathedral City” of Armagh, the Church of Ireland and Catholic Cathedrals are dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint. The older Church of Ireland cathedral can trace its heritage back to Saint Patrick himself, while the neo-Gothic structure of the Catholic Cathedral was constructed in the 19th century. Each features various depictions of Irish saints in stunning murals, statues, and stained-glass windows.

Gallarus Oratory Near Dingle

Address: Dingle Peninsula, Gallarus Oratory, Dingle, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Phone: +353 66 915 5333

The Gallarus Oratory resembles an overturned boat and stands as one of the historical gems located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. Nestled into the landscape, its organic design can easily go unnoticed without a guide.

Saint Patrick’s Church in Saul

Address: Saint Patricks Road, Raholp, Downpatrick BT30 7JQ, UK

Phone: +44 28 4461 5947

This modest church in County Down commemorates the 1500th anniversary of Saint Patrick’s mission, working from the assumed date of 432. A classical Irish round tower serves as the campanile, making it the most fancifully designed feature. A small stained-glass window representing Patrick himself provides a fitting tribute to a humble servant.

Saint Colman’s Cathedral in Cobh

Address: 5 Cathedral Place, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland

Phone: +353 21 481 3222

Constructed on a man-made base of sandstone, this cathedral, built between 1859 and 1919, exemplifies the French Gothic architectural style, prominently featuring rose windows, pointed arches, and detailed gargoyles. The intricacies of its design offer a breathtaking Mediterranean flair, particularly noted in the Sacred Heart Chapel adorned with Italian marble.

Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin

Address: Christchurch Place, Wood Quay, Dublin, D08 TF98, Ireland

Phone: +353 1 677 8099

This cathedral represents the first stone building erected in Dublin by the conqueror, “Strongbow,” for his close associate, Archbishop Laurence O’Toole. O’Toole, now a saint, still has his mummified heart displayed in St. Laud’s Chapel alongside the mummified remains of a rat and a cat discovered in an organ pipe circa 1860. A unique feature of Christ Church is its expansive crypt, which serves as a museum detailing the cathedral’s extensive history.

Saint Columba’s House in Kells

Address: Saint Columbas Terrace, Kilballivor, Co. Meath, Ireland

This hidden gem sits between the busy N3 and Kells’ round tower, tucked away in a narrow lane of County Meath. Representing early Irish church architecture, its steep roof and rugged construction create a quaint profile, albeit not conventionally attractive.

University Church in Dublin

Address: Newman University Church, 87a Saint Stephen’s Green, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin, Ireland

Phone: +353 1 475 9674

Well-concealed and overlooked by myriad passersby, this unique church at Saint Stephen’s Green South is among the more peculiar establishments in Dublin. Built during the apex of the Catholic Revival to accommodate a new university, its Byzantine decorations lend it an almost incongruous appearance within the city. The narrow yet tall structure features unconventional proportions complemented by intricate decorative details.