Saint Patrick's Cathedral has contributed much to Irish life throughout its long history (it was founded in 1191).

The writer and satirist Jonathan Swift was Dean of Saint Patrick's from 1713-1747. Handel's Messiah received its first performance in 1742 sung by the combined choir of Saint Patrick's and Christchurch.

Music has played an integral part in the life of Saint Patrick's since its foundation and it is the only cathedral in these islands to sing two services everyday.

Living Stones, the cathedral's permanent exhibition, celebrates Saint Patrick's place in the life of the city, its history and its role at the dawn of the third millennium. It emphasises that the cathedral is not a museum but a building embracing the past to herald the future.

Opening Times:

Daily from 9am-6pm except Saturday; (9am-5pm) and Sundays; (from November-February) 9am-3pm.

Tours are not admitted during services except for worship. The Cathedral is closed to visitors on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, St. Stephens Day and New Year’s Day.

Last weekday admission 5pm.

Times of Services:

Daily (Monday-Friday) 9.40am-10am
Choral Matins (School Term only) 11.05am-11.35am Holy Eucharist
17.45pm-18.25pm Choral Evensong
Sunday 8.30pm-9pm Holy Eucharist
11.15am-12.30pm Choral Eucharist/Matins
15.15pm-16.30pm Choral Evensong

Facilities:

Coach parking available in Saint Patrick’s Close. Wheelchair access by arrangement, toilets, shop, detailed walking guides of the Cathedral in English, French, and German, introductory leaflets in all major languages, voucher system (please telephone 453 9472 or fax 454 6374).
Please note that the Cathedral does not provide guided tours.