St Mary's Cathedral, Limerick

St Mary's Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral in Limerick built from brick and gray stone, rising prominently above Bridge Street. The structure features a 120-foot tower with eight bells and interior choir stalls decorated with medieval wooden carvings beneath the seats.

The cathedral was founded in 1168 by King Domhnall Mhor O'Brien on the site of his royal palace, which itself stood over a former Viking gathering place. Over the centuries, the building underwent various phases of rebuilding and renovation as it served the community as a religious center.

The cathedral holds medieval wooden carvings beneath the choir seats, showing religious scenes and daily life details from centuries ago. These carvings reveal what people valued and believed in during the Middle Ages.

The cathedral welcomes visitors during designated weekday hours, though access may vary depending on services being held. It is wise to check ahead for opening times and any special events that might affect visiting times.

The stones surrounding the cathedral's west door carry scratch marks left by defenders sharpening weapons during historical sieges of the city. These subtle marks serve as tangible reminders of the building's role in the town's turbulent past and the conflicts that shaped it.

Location: Limerick

Inception: 1168

Made from material: brick

Website: http://cathedral.limerick.anglican.org

GPS coordinates: 52.66831,-8.62348

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:55