No, there isn’t a pro and amateur league for cathedrals in Ireland—[“]pro” simply means “temporary.” And therein lies a fascinating piece of historical trivia. Contrary to popular belief, Dublin has no Roman Catholic cathedral (St. Patrick’s and Christ Church have been part of the Anglican Church of Ireland since the 16th century.) But the Vatican views Christ Church as Dublin’s “true” Catholic cathedral. Therefore, St. Mary’s has been designated the “temporary” official Catholic cathedral in Dublin…since 1820. Tucked away on a rather unimpressive back street, it’s nonetheless the heart of the city’s Northside. It was built between 1815 and 1825 in Greek Revival Doric style, with an exterior portico modeled on the Temple of Theseus in Athens, with six Doric columns. The Renaissance-style interior is patterned after the Church of Saint-Philippe du Roule of Paris. The church is noted for its awe-inspiring Palestrina Choir, which sings a Latin Mass Sundays at 11am during school terms.
Dublin
Travel Guide
Dublin› Attraction
St. Mary’s Pro Cathedral
83 Marlborough St., Dublin 1
Our Rating
Hours
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, Sat 8am–7pm; Sun 9am–1:45pm and 5–7:30pm; public holidays 10am–1:30pm
Transportation
DART: Connolly, Tara St. Luas: Abbey St. Bus: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 7A, 7B, 7D, 8, 10, 10A, 11, 11A, 11B, 13, 20B, 27, 32X, 33X, 39X, 40A, 40C, 41, 41A, 41B, 41C, 41X, 42, 42A, 42B, 43, 51A, 116, 123, 130, 142, 747
Phone
01/874-5441
Prices
Free admission
Web site
St. Mary’s Pro Cathedral
Map
83 Marlborough St., Dublin 1 DublinNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.