In the heart of Medieval Dublin and renowned for its beauty, architecture and exquisite floor tiles, Christ Church Cathedral was founded in 1030 by Sitric, King of the Dublin Norsemen. In 1152 it was incorporated into the Irish Church and eventually led by the famous Archbishop and patron saint of Dublin, Laurence O’Toole.
The cathedral is home to a famous 12th century crypt, one of the oldest and largest in Ireland and Britain. The restored crypt houses the important Treasures of Christ Church exhibition which features manuscripts and artefacts that give visitors some impression of nearly one thousand years of worship in the cathedral and nearby churches. Outstanding among the rare church silver is the stunning royal plate given by King William III in 1697 as a thanksgiving for his victory at the Battle of the Boyne. The Treasury also plays host to a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta Hiberniae.
Complete a visit by discovering the great range of Christ Church souvenirs and Irish gifts available in the gift shop. All proceeds from the shop support the work of the cathedral.
- Deck The Hall - The Stories of our Favourite Christmas Carols with author Andrew Gant
WinterDeck The Hall - The Stories of our Favourite Christmas Carols with author Andrew Gant Join us for a fun, festive evening which will offer new insights into our Christmas musical traditions – with a few surprises along the way!
- Advent Procession
WinterAdvent Procession This dramatic, candle-lit service is an invitation to pause and reflect, enfolded by beautiful seasonal music.
- Christmas Carol Concert at Christ Church with the St Mary's College Singers
WinterChristmas Carol Concert at Christ Church with the St Mary's College Singers Join in for ‘Peace on Earth’ a night of Christmas carols with the St Mary's College Singers led by Choir Director Maria Stanley.
- Carols for Christmas with New Dublin Voices at Christ Church Cathedral
WinterCarols for Christmas with New Dublin Voices at Christ Church Cathedral On Saturday December 7th 2024, Ireland’s international award-winning chamber choir New Dublin Voices and conductor Bernie Sherlock return to Christ Church Cathedral in Carols for Christmas.
- Christmas at Christ Church Cathedral
WinterChristmas at Christ Church Cathedral On Wednesday 11 & Thursday 12 December, enjoy a festive evening at Christ Church Cathedral with their renowned choir in performances that will fill the historic space with Christmas spirit.
- Viennese Christmas Spectacular at Christ Church Cathedral
WinterViennese Christmas Spectacular at Christ Church Cathedral Experience the enchantment of Viennese Christmas at our spectacular concert! Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Christmas with a symphonic feast!
- Wreath Making Workshop - Morning
WinterWreath Making Workshop - Morning Come and join us for our popular annual wreath making workshops. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the cathedral at Christmas and go home with your own decorative wreath.
- Wreath Making Workshop - Afternoon
WinterWreath Making Workshop - Afternoon Come and join us for our popular annual wreath making workshops. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the cathedral at Christmas and go home with your own decorative wreath.
- It is possible to climb the belfry and ring the bells on some tours.
- Experience the atmosphere of the 12th century crypt with its richly sculpted monuments and display of church treasures.
- See the unusual heart shaped box that holds the heart relic of Saint Laurence O'Toole.
- Learn how the mummified cat and rat came to be on display in the crypt.
- Guided tours reveal the secrets of this must-see attraction.
Make sure to cross the street after your visit and sample the famous fish 'n' chips in Leo Burdock's which has been in operation over 100 years.
