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Christ Church Cathedral – Dublin |
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Address :
Christchurch Place,
Dublin 8,
Ireland
Phone: +353 (0)1 677-8099
Fax: +353 (0)1 679-8991
Getting There :
The Christ Church Cathedral also known as the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is situated just beside the civic offices, on the Western Edge of Temple Bar on the corner of Winetavern Street and Christchurch Place, within 15 minutes walk from Trinity College and Dublin city centre. An enclosed bridge links Winetavern Street to the Cathedral to Synod hall. This magnificent structure is best viewed from the river side in order to truly appreciate its size.
By foot: From Trinity College, walk due west along College Green, Dame Street and Lord Edward Street. By bus: 49, 50, 51B, 54A, 56A, 65, 77, 77A, 78A, 123. By train: DART to Tara Street. Take the feeder bus No.90 from Tara Street to Wood Quay.
The History :
Its history can be traced to 1030 AD, when Dunan, the first bishop of Dublin appointed by Sitric Silkenbeard, The Norse King of Dublin reigned. During Norman rule, Richard de Clare also known as “Strongbow” instigated the Cathedral to be rebuilt in its present Romanesque form to include the huge crypt which was completed in 1240 and still remains in its original form.
Christ Church Cathedral has seen a long succession of enhancements reflecting Dublin History. The last effort at renovation was between 1871 and 1878 when a local distiller donated a large sum of money for its restoration. The English architect George Edward Street contributed largely to its restoration. The splendour is the result of renovations and restorations which is continuing even today and is used daily to serve the Dublin and Glendalough dioceses of the Church of Ireland. Interesting Sites within
It is said that Strongbow’s tomb is situated in the nave. The original tomb was destroyed and the replacements are from the 14th Century. The small figure alongside his statue is said to be a fragment from the original monument. A visit to the Crypt, is definitely a must since it still retains its original structure and is said to bear the weight of the cathedral. Look out for a heart shaped iron box in the Peace Chapel which is believed to contain the heart of St. Laurence O’ Toole and has a medieval floor tiled in 63 patterns. Victorian artistry is evident in the Baptistry, the Screens and Lectern and throughout this magnificent structure. The Cathedral shop is well worth a visit since it contains mementos of your visit to Christ Church.
Also of Interest :
The Cathedral holds an exhibition “Treasures of Christ Church” reflecting about 1000 years of history, displaying a unique range of manuscripts, historic artifacts and spectacular examples of gold and silverware, architecture and worship in Ireland The world famous choir traces its origins to 1480 and is also famous for the first performance of Handel’s Messiah. Christ Church holds a series of concerts, recitals and talks throughout the year.
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