St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin is one of Ireland's most famous temples. It is also one of the oldest buildings in the country, belongs to the Anglican church, has a rich and interesting history. Description of St. Patrick's Cathedral, how to get to it, interesting facts - all this will be described in detail in the article.
How it all began
St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin was erected next to the holy spring of the same name in about 1190. Two years later, the chief archbishop D. Comin assigned him the status of a cathedral church. Gradually, new buildings began to be erected next to the church, including the palace of the archbishop. Legally, the cathedral was administered by the archbishop and dean (administrative position).
In 1225, by decree of King Henry III, the capital reconstruction of the temple began, which lasted four years. At its completion, St. Patrick's Cathedral (Dublin) acquired a new architectural style, which later became known as English Gothic.
Towards the end of the 13th century, the so-called Lady Chapel was added to the temple, which was used as the home church for the Viceroys of Ireland. The western nave (an elongated central building in the Catholic church), as well as the Minot tower, was restored around the period from 1362 to 1370 after a serious fire.
Since the construction of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin (Ireland) and throughout its history, the biggest problem has been the constant flooding of the building due to the Poddle River, which is located near the cathedral. She periodically flooded the premises of the temple and nearby buildings. In the XVIII century there was a severe flood, as a result of which the cathedral suffered significant damage.
Cathedral in the 16th century
During the reign of King Edward VI, St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin was in a deplorable state. By that time, some premises began to be used for other purposes, for example, as a courtroom or high school.
Silver, gold, jewelry, and most church utensils were transferred to the temple of Christ. In the middle of the XVI century the walls of the cathedral were repainted, and after that they were decorated with quotes from the Holy Scriptures.
In 1555, the reconstruction and restoration of the premises began. The Queen issues a decree that states the full return of all valuables to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin. Five years later, one of the first hours in the city is installed on the tower of the cathedral.
Temple in the 17th century
By this time, part of the premises of the cathedral is being destroyed, such as, for example, the chapel of the Virgin. Later it is separated from the main group of temple buildings. At the same time, several galleries are attached to the temple to further accommodate the increased number of ministers of the cathedral.
In 1666, the chapel of the Virgin was transferred to the Huguenots, who fled to Ireland from France. According to the lease, the chapel was transferred for 150 years.
From 1668 to 1670, the temple became Catholic, but after the crushing defeat of the Irish Jacobites from soldiers of William III, the temple again turns into an Anglican one.
Cathedral in the 18th-19th centuries
The famous Irish writer and public figure D. Swift from 1713 to 1745 was the dean of the cathedral. He repeatedly allocated money from his fees for the needs of the temple. During his deanhood, a shelter for women was established here, as well as a hospital.
In 1769, a tall spire was installed on the tower, which has been preserved to this day and is one of the landmarks of the capital.
From 1783 to 1871, the temple was the chapel of the Order of St. Patrick, where a special ceremony of consecration to the Irish knights was held. Today you can see their arms, having come to the cathedral on an excursion.
In 1805, they began to restore the northern transept (transverse nave of the cathedral), which by that time was almost destroyed. The full restoration of the temple begins, but it could not be completed due to economic difficulties.
From 1860 to 1865, the church was restored thanks to the funds of the famous Irish brewer B. Guinness. At the same time, the Celtic cross was found, which today is exhibited in the temple.
In 1871, St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin receives national status.
Temple now
Today, various national ceremonies are held in the cathedral. For example, on Memorial Day (November), the country's president visits him. In addition to its direct purpose, this temple works like a museum. For everyone, his doors are open on weekdays and Saturdays from 9.30 to 17.00, and on Sunday from 9.00 to 14.30. Entrance for visitors costs six and a half euros (about 400 rubles).
The cathedral is a symbol of Ireland, it is visited annually by a large number of tourists. You can get to the temple by taxi or public transport, for example, buses No. 49, 50, 54, 56 A, 77 and 150.
St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin: reviews
Numerous traveler reviews tell about the beauty of not only the city, but also St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Here you will find a fascinating tour with a detailed story about the history of the temple.
You can see the unique English Gothic, which will appeal not only to architecture lovers, but also to all tourists. Beautiful stained-glass windows fascinate with their light when the sun's rays fall on them.
The cathedral has many different ancient statues, as well as a monument to Jonathan Swift, who is the national hero of Ireland. The beauty and majesty of the temple amaze and amaze, since it was erected several centuries ago without the use of advanced technologies.
Once in the cathedral, people are imbued with its beauty and grace. To feel the atmosphere of this amazing temple, tourists who visited the cathedral recommend visiting it during the service.
It is a magnificent temple of beauty and monumentality. According to tourists, only the Notre Dame Cathedral can be compared with it. At the same time, travelers like the fact that there are detailed guides describing the cathedral in many languages of the world, including Russian.
Those wishing to enjoy the Gothic of old Dublin, tourists are strongly advised to visit this beautiful cathedral.
Once in the capital of Ireland, take a little time to see this grand building. The impression of his visit will be unforgettable and will last a lifetime.