St Patrick's Cathedral
Ireland's largest cathedral, founded in 1191 on the site where St Patrick reputedly baptised converts.
About
Why visit St Patrick's Cathedral
Founded in 1191 beside a well where legend says St Patrick baptised converts in the 5th century, Ireland's largest cathedral is a soaring medieval Gothic space that served as Jonathan Swift's parish — the Gulliver's Travels author was Dean here from 1713 to 1745 and is buried in the nave.
- Oliver Cromwell stabled his horses in the cathedral nave in 1649.
- The phrase 'chancing your arm' comes from a 1492 feud settled through a hole cut in the cathedral's door.
- Handel is said to have practised on the organ before the world premiere of Messiah at Fishamble Street in 1742.
Not to miss
Highlights
The moments that define a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral.
Jonathan Swift's tomb
The Gulliver's Travels author is buried in the nave with his epitaph he wrote himself.
Medieval floor tiles
13th-century encaustic tiles reset in the Lady Chapel.
Boyle Monument
Ornate 17th-century family tomb that once blocked the altar.
Cathedral Choir
One of Europe's oldest — sung Evensong most weekday evenings.
Right for you?
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Local know-how
Visitor tips
Small things that turn a good visit into a great one.
Time your visit to catch the 5:30 pm choral evensong (weekdays in term).
Photography is allowed without flash — the north aisle catches the best light after 3 pm.
The park outside (St Patrick's Park) is a peaceful spot to picnic before or after.
Nearby
Combine with
Other guides within a short walk.
Dublin Castle Tour
Norman fortress turned Georgian state complex — 800 years of Irish power in one courtyard.
Open guideHaunted Dublin Walking Tour
After-dark walk through medieval alleys, plague pits and haunted pubs with a costumed storyteller.
Open guideAfternoon Tea Bus Tour
Sightseeing Dublin from the top deck of a vintage Routemaster while sipping tea and eating patisserie.
Open guideSee it with a guide
Tours & experiences
Curated picks across guided walks, skip-the-line entry and after-hours access.