Cathedral of the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary

The Cathedral of the Assumption is a Catholic place of worship built in Gothic Revival style with pointed arches and ribbed vaults throughout its structure. The entire building is constructed from dimension stone and stands as a major architectural landmark in the town.

The foundation stone was placed in 1828 by Bishop James Doyle, making this the second oldest Catholic cathedral built in Ireland during that era. Its construction reflected a period of renewed Catholic church building across the country.

The cathedral houses works by sculptor John Hogan, including a memorial to Bishop Doyle and a Holy Family Group positioned near the Marian altar that draw visitors' attention.

The cathedral is accessible several days each week and welcomes visitors to attend services or explore the interior at their own pace. The best times to visit are outside service hours when you can enjoy the architecture without interruption.

The interior contains several notable altars from different periods, including a Caen stone altar from 1873 and a marble altar added later in the century. These altars demonstrate the community's commitment to fine craftsmanship and religious devotion across generations.

Location: Carlow

Inception: 1833

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Made from material: dimension stone

Website: http://carlowcathedral.ie

GPS coordinates: 52.83700,-6.92777

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:40