Dublin is an old city, hiding many amazing treasures amongst the city borders. One of them is undoubtedly the Christ Church Cathedral. Located right on top of the Dame Street and Lord Edwards street, the cathedral is often missed by tourists heading off to a much bigger religious building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral. However, this small cathedral of the Church of Ireland offers equally many wonders to its visitors.

Christ Church Cathedral is a cathedral of the United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough. Originally the seat of both the bishop of the Church of Ireland and the Roman Catholic Church, these days the cathedral serves only the Church of Ireland. It is one out of only three Dublin cathedrals that can been seen from the River Liffey (the main river of the city).

The cathedral, built around 1028 is the spiritual heart of the city and also one of the top tourist attractions in Dublin. Here are some of the things you can visit and see while in the cathedral.

The crypt

You can go beneath the cathedral and explore one of the largest crypts in Britain and Ireland. It is also the earliest surviving structure in the city. Inside you can enjoy an audio visual presentation, watch various objects on display as well as have lunch in the cathedral’s cafe.

Cat & The Rat

Quite unusual artifacts to be found in the cathedral are mummified cat and a mouse, which can be seen in the crypt. Both have been mentioned in the famous Finnegan’s Wake by James Joyce and are known around the city as Tom & Jerry.

Check out the relics

Christ Church Cathedral was a major pilgrim site in the medieval days. Back then it housed a number of relics, out of which one is still there and can be seen, the heart of Laurence O’Toole, patron saint of Dublin.

Experience Evensong with Irelands Top Choir

The choir of the cathedral is a tourist attraction of its own. Established in 1493 the choir took part in the famous first performance of Handels “Messiah” and is still active today. The group is constantly on tour but also gives out concerts in the cathedral. You can check the performance times on this page.

Christ Church cathedral in Dublin is without a doubt one of the top tourist attractions in the city and if you are coming over, make sure that you step into this magical place.

Photo credit: William Murphy via Wikipedia Commons

Dublin is a city of many wonders. It’s a true haven for any tourist. If you are planning a short break in the city, and, your budget is tight, here are some of the best things you can do in Dublin for free.

1. Trinity College

Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College is a true gem to visit. It is one of the most significant tourist attractions, being visited by thousands of people every year.

The grounds of the college, completely opened to the public offer a much delight to those interested in architecture. The Chapel and the Examination Hall being one of the best examples of that, as well as the Museum Building. You can also visit the Trinity College Library, the largest research library in Ireland. One of the most important books there is the Book of Kells, the oldest printed book in Ireland.

Trinity college is located right in the center of Dublin, 2 minutes off the famous O’Connell Bridge and at the start of another well known Dublin street, the Dame St. It is one of the many Dublin landmarks that you simply can’t miss.

2. Grafton Street and st. Stephens Green

Right off the Trinity starts another major landmark in the city, Grafton street. This is one of the two main shopping streets in the city (the other being Henry street), bringing together top brands, coffee shops and restaurants. At the end of it lies St. Stephens Green, a beautiful park.

3. Phoenix Park

This, one of the largest walled city parks in Europe is a true delight and a great escape from the busy city life. spanning 1750 acres, the park incorporates walking path, bike tracks, many monuments as well as Dublin Zoo.

The park also incorporates the residence of the President of Ireland, the Papal Cross, erected for the visit of Pope John Paul II back in 1979 and the Deerfield Residence, occupied by the Ambassador of the United States of America.

Another great landmark in the park is the Magazine Fort. Built by Sir Edward Fisher in 1611 and marks the original spot where Phoenix Park was originally established.

You can get to the park on foot from the city center, although it is a bit of a walk or hop in on one of the many buses going from the town. Inside the park you can freely walk from one landmark to the other. Alternatively, you can hop in on one of the tour buses that will take you around the park.

4. National Gallery Of Ireland and Modern Art Museum

Located on Merrion Square, right in the city center the gallery houses a vast collection of Irish and European Art. If, however, you are more interested in contemporary art, then the Modern Art Museum, located right opposite the Houston Station is a must see for you. The museum holds a series of exhibitions throughout the year showcasing best of new art from Ireland and abroad.

5. Howth Harbour

If you find yourself wanting to escape the busy city, then there is no better place to visit than Howth harbor. Located north of Dublin, the harbor offers many attractions to its visitors. But, the highlight one is by far a chance to take the boat to the nearby island to wander around its lands.

Photo credit: pierofix