St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, Drogheda

St. Peter's Church is a limestone Catholic building in Drogheda distinguished by French Gothic design and a prominent west-facing gable wall. The interior is filled with more than 40 stained glass windows that depict religious scenes in different styles and periods.

The original building was started in 1791 during a time when laws restricted Catholics from constructing new places of worship within town boundaries. Its completion marked an important moment for the freedom to practice Catholicism openly in the region.

This place draws pilgrims who come to honor St Oliver Plunkett, an Irish martyr whose remains are kept here as a focus of prayer and reflection. Visitors often light candles and spend time in quiet devotion, making it a center of spiritual remembrance for people from many backgrounds.

The building is generally open to visitors during daytime hours, with the best time to explore being outside of service times. It is helpful to note information plaques throughout the space that explain the artwork and history of the location.

The building houses the original cell door from Newgate prison where St Oliver Plunkett spent his final days before execution. This overlooked piece of history serves as a powerful reminder of the suffering endured by those who refused to abandon their faith.

Location: County Louth

Inception: 1884

Website: https://saintpetersdrogheda.ie

GPS coordinates: 53.71539,-6.35242

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:48