The Catholic cathedral of Kilkenny City, St Mary’s is a tall, imposing structure designed by William Deane Butler in the Gothic Revival aesthetic. The cruciform structure was constructed with local limestone in a style inspired by Norman architecture. It took six years to build and was completed in 1849. St Mary's was later remodelled according to proposals from the Second Vatican Council, though it remained true to the original architecture.
St. Mary’s Cathedral still dominates the landscape of Kilkenny, its great tower being visible from all approaches to the city. It stands as a reminder of the faith and growing confidence of a far off generation – a reminder and much more than a reminder.
Indulge yourself with treats or lunch at the Cathedral Café in the old chapter house building beside the cathedral.
View the wax casing with relics of the child martyr St. Victoria, a gift from the Pope when the cathedral was consecrated.
