Contains the only set of 15th-century carved oak misericords remaining in Ireland.
The original west doorway was likely the entrance to the royal palace of the Kings of Thomond.
The cathedral's floor tiles are one of the most significant collections of medieval encaustic tiles in the country.
It survived three major sieges of Limerick during the 17th century.
The peal of bells includes one cast in 1673, which remains in regular use.
The interior contains a significant collection of funerary monuments and ledger stones dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Architectural analysis reveals it was built on the site of a Viking-era settlement.
Saint Mary's Cathedral is the oldest building in Limerick, founded by Donal Mór O'Brien, King of Thomond, in 1168. It serves as the cathedral for the United Dioceses of Limerick, Killaloe and Ardfert within the Church of Ireland. The structure incorporates remnants of the O'Brien palace, including the original west doorway. It is noted for its Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, reflecting centuries of modifications. The interior contains the only remaining complete set of pre-Reformation misericords in Ireland, carved from Irish oak in the 15th century. The tower, added in the 14th century, stands 120 feet tall and houses a ring of eight bells, one of which dates back to 1673. The cathedral floor features a unique geometric tile pattern influenced by Islamic designs from the Crusades. The site has functioned as a place of worship for over 850 years, surviving the Siege of Limerick in 1691.
The interior view looking down the central nave toward the altar, or the exterior from Bridge Street capturing the medieval tower.
Walk the perimeter of the churchyard to view the historic gravestones and remnants of the medieval city walls.
Check the notice board inside for local choral performance schedules.
Take time to examine the woodwork under the choir stalls to see the 15th-century carvings.
Do not enter during scheduled worship services or private ceremonies if you are not attending the event.
Occasionally closed to the public for private weddings, funerals, or diocesan events.
Maintain a quiet volume; dress modestly as it is an active place of worship; remove hats when entering.
