Christ Church Cathedral

Overview

Christ Church Cathedral, formally the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, is Dublin's oldest medieval building, founded by the Norse King Sitriuc Silkenbeard and the first Bishop of Dublin, Dúnán, around 1030. It stands on a prominent hill overlooking the River Liffey.

Highlights

• Medieval Crypt: The largest medieval crypt in Britain and Ireland, stretching the full length of the cathedral — 63 metres.
• Strongbow's Tomb: The reputed tomb of the Norman lord Richard de Clare (Strongbow), who rebuilt the cathedral in stone from 1172.
• Bridge to Dublinia: A covered Victorian bridge connects the cathedral to the Dublinia heritage centre in the former Synod Hall.

History

Originally a wooden Norse church, it was rebuilt in stone by Strongbow after the Norman invasion. Major restoration by architect George Edmund Street in the 1870s gave it much of its current appearance.

Visitor Tips

• Don't miss the crypt exhibition, which includes a mummified cat and rat known as "Tom and Jerry."
• Combined tickets with Dublinia are available.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.