The Altar Church

The Altar Church is a Church of Ireland building in Toormore, County Cork, featuring a cruciform design with a double-height nave, single-storey transepts, and a rendered belfry on the western side. The structure sits within a graveyard enclosed by stone walls, accessed through cast-iron gates and rendered gate piers.

The church was built between 1847 and 1852 during the Great Famine, when Reverend William Fisher initiated the project to provide employment for local residents. Construction took place during a time of severe hardship in the region.

The church displays traditional Anglican architectural elements, including lancet windows with stained glass and detailed timber paneling throughout the interior. These features reflect the spiritual character of the community and define how the space feels when you step inside.

The building sits alongside an active graveyard, so visitors should approach with respect for the burial ground. Access is available through the marked entrance gates, and visiting during daylight hours lets you appreciate the full architectural details.

This structure remains the only Church of Ireland building with an official Irish name, Teampol na mBocht, which means Church of the Poor. The name honors the original purpose of serving the poorest members of the community during their time of greatest need.