St. Patrick's Cathedral, Skibbereen, Neoclassical cathedral in Skibbereen, Ireland
St. Patrick's Cathedral in Skibbereen is a neoclassical church notable for its distinctive structural features and construction methods. The building displays a prominent tympanum topped by a belfry, while the transepts show an irregular appearance created by their tunneled construction approach.
The foundation stone was laid in 1825 with completion achieved in 1826 as a parish church serving the Diocese of Cloyne and Ross. The building later underwent a significant administrative change when it lost its cathedral status following the diocese merger in 1958.
The interior displays an altarpiece by Irish painter Samuel Forde that brings classical artistic details to the space. This work connects local artistic tradition with religious life in the community.
The building remains open to visitors during regular hours and continues to serve as an active place of worship for the local Catholic community. Guests should be aware that it is a functioning church with ongoing community activities.
The altarpiece by Samuel Forde has been preserved at a separate church in nearby Castlehaven, creating an unusual connection between this building and another local place of worship. This reflects how religious artworks have moved and been redistributed over time.
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