Dublin, Ireland - Exploring St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, originally known as "The National Cathedral and Collegiate Church of Saint Patrick, Dublin and in Irish as Árd Eaglais Naomh Pádraig" is a must see site in Dublin. It is a stop on every bus tour route and well worth the negligible 5 euros entry fee.

In 1191, under the leadership of John Comyn, the first archbishop of Dublin, Saint Patrick's given the status of a cathedral. Erected between 1200 and 1270. Over time the cathedral deteriorated, despite many attempts to restore it. After the Reformation in England, St Patrick's became a Protestant Cathedral, although most of the population remained Roman Catholic.

From 1783 until 1871 the cathedral served as the Chapel of the Most Illustrious Order of Saint Patrick, members were known as the Knights of St. Patrick. The heraldic banners and helmets of the knights still hang over the choir stalls.

Between 1860 and 1900 restoration based on the original design, was carried out funded by the Guinness family. They received some criticism by donating a stained glass window of Rebecca at the Well reading "I was thirsty and ye gave me drink". One of the Guinness family's statue is outside the south door.
The entrance is fairly nondescript compared to Christ's Church, but don't let that fool you. Inside is a whole world of incredible work in wood, stone, tile, and stained glass. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels, was Dean of St. Patrick's from 1713-1745 and he is buried just inside the entrance to the right. This is a functioning church, so be quiet and respectful. They allow photographs and tripods (this is rare in any building), but don't use your flash. The tripod is very helpful as the interior is quite dark and lit mostly by the impressive stained glass windows.

Of special interest are the wood carvings in the back of the cathedral. They are painted and very detailed. To the front and left is a very interesting spiral staircase of stone with delicate pillars. You can't climb it, but you can get right up to it to examine the workmanship. The pulpit is also very nicely carved and worth closer examination. The stained glass throughout is very well done and reflects a variety of styles. On the right side of the cathedral are a number of statues including a nice on of the man himself (St. Patrick).

The tile floor is very well done with a variety of patterns. Try and get a picture with the light from a stained glass window striking it. The backside of the exterior is much more impressive than the front and backs onto a large greenspace. This is an excellent area to admire the cathedral and do some people-watching. If it is lunchtime there will be quite a crowd. Grab a sandwich and a mineral and join them.