St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh
St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Pastel-Colored Day Trip: Cork & Cobh Hill Walk 🍬
Dawn kelly
222
St. Colman’s Cathedral, perched above the town of Cobh in County Cork, is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture and a prominent symbol of Ireland’s ecclesiastical heritage. Designed by architects Edward Welby Pugin and George Coppinger Ashlin, construction began in 1868 and spanned over five decades, culminating in its consecration in 1919. The cathedral’s towering spire, reaching 91.4 meters, makes it the tallest church in Ireland, offering panoramic views of Cork Harbour.   The cathedral’s construction was a monumental endeavor, with initial plans evolving significantly over time. Bishop William Keane initiated the project, laying the foundation stone in 1868. However, due to design revisions and financial challenges, the building process extended well into the early 20th century. The spire, a defining feature, was completed between 1911 and 1915, adding to the cathedral’s majestic presence.   Architecturally, St. Colman’s Cathedral is constructed from blue Dalkey granite with Mallow limestone dressings, embodying the French Gothic style. The interior boasts an aisled nave, transepts, and an apsidal chancel, adorned with red Middleton marble shrines and confessionals made of red Aberdeen granite.  A notable feature is the cathedral’s 49-bell carillon, the largest in Ireland and among the most significant in Europe. Installed in 1916 and restored in 1998, the carillon includes Ireland’s largest bell, named St. Colman, weighing 3.6 tons. The bells chime regularly, marking time and accompanying religious ceremonies.    Today, St. Colman’s Cathedral remains an active place of worship and a significant tourist attraction. Its striking silhouette against the backdrop of colorful Cobh houses and the Atlantic Ocean continues to captivate visitors, reflecting both spiritual significance and architectural grandeur. 
Rushikesh Dabhekar
00
St. Colman’s Cathedral in Cobh, Ireland, is a magnificent architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the town's rich history and heritage. Perched atop a hill overlooking Cork Harbour, this stunning cathedral dominates the skyline with its towering spires and intricate neo-Gothic design. Designed by renowned architect E.W. Pugin, St. Colman’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of Victorian-era architecture, boasting exquisite stained glass windows, ornate carvings, and a majestic interior that inspires awe and reverence. Visitors to the cathedral are treated to a spiritual and cultural experience, with guided tours offering insights into the cathedral's history, architecture, and significance within the community. The cathedral's hilltop location also provides breathtaking panoramic views of Cobh and the surrounding coastline, adding to the allure of this iconic landmark. Whether you're admiring its architectural beauty, exploring its rich history, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, a visit to St. Colman’s Cathedral is a must for anyone exploring the historic town of Cobh.
The Romanian Guy
00
This cathedral is a must visit if you happen to be visiting Cobh. It is a single spire cathedral, reaching a height of 91.4 metres (300ft) which also makes it the tallest church in Ireland. It sits on a spectacular view of the harbour and is dedicated to St. Colmán of Cloyne. Somewhat noteworthy is the fact that construction started on the Cathedeal in 1868 but it was only completed in 1919 because of construction costs spiralling out of control and plans being revised. Also noteworthy is the fact that the tower contains Ireland's only carillon containing 49 bells making it the most of any in the country and the British Isles. The tower also contains Ireland's largest bell, known as St. Colman weighing some 3.6 tonnes! The architectural style of the cathedral is Gothic Revival. The cathedral is constructed primarily from blue Dalkey granite with limestone from Mallow used in dressings. The foundation is largely sandstone from Carrigmore and Castle Oliver and the roof is Belgian blue slate.
Kevin Byrne
00
Incredibly tall and breathtaking structure! The style is similar to gothic. When you are nearby, the first question that arises is how they could build it? Such power comes from him! It was not possible to get inside the cathedral, the time was later, it was closed, but such greatness that it exudes from the outside, I can’t even imagine what it is like inside! You definitely need to visit it again! A lot of sculptures, as allegories of virtues and vices. As well as statues and reliefs that are located in niches, give this majestic cathedral its special atmosphere. According to these images, it can be read as a book of the Universe. Across the road from the cathedral is a strip of colorful houses that have their own charming charm.
Eirin Denika
00
This is a very stunning, unique and majestic Roman Catholic Cathedral. Standing high above the quaint town of Cobh, it's in a very commanding position, overlooking the town and Cork Harbour. The breathtaking views from the Cathedral made climbing the steps from the bottom of Cobh town to get to the Cathedral high up from the seafront well worth it. The views from the Cathedral are nothing short of spectacular. The Cathedral itself with its 300 ft high spire is a very impressive architectural building with so many details and an exceptional spacious 'Gothic' style interior with beautiful stained glass windows. It's a must visit when in Cobh.
Adam G
00
Nearby Attractions Of St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh
Titanic Experience Cobh
Cobh Heritage Centre. The Queenstown Story
Spike Island Tours
"Deck of Cards" Houses
Cobh
The Titanic Trail
RMS Titanic Memorial
Cobh Rebel Walking Tours
Sirius Arts Centre
J.F. Kennedy Pier

Titanic Experience Cobh
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Cobh Heritage Centre. The Queenstown Story
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Nearby Restaurants Of St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh
Titanic Bar and Grill
The Quays Bar & Restaurant
Kelly's Bar
The Roaring Donkey
Jacob's Ladder Restaurant
Cuppacity Coffee
Seasalt Cafe and Deli Cobh
Coffee Cove
Supermac's & Papa John's
O'Shea's Bar

Titanic Bar and Grill
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The Quays Bar & Restaurant
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Kelly's Bar
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The Roaring Donkey
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Basic Info
Address
5 Cathedral Pl, Kilgarvan, Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland
Map
Phone
+353 21 481 3222
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Website
cobhcathedralparish.ie
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Reviews
Overview
4.8
(1.1K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
scenic
accessibility
Description
The Cathedral Church of St Colman, usually known as Cobh Cathedral, or previously Queenstown Cathedral, is a single-spire cathedral in Cobh, Ireland. It is a Roman Catholic cathedral and was completed in 1919.
attractions: Titanic Experience Cobh, Cobh Heritage Centre. The Queenstown Story, Spike Island Tours, "Deck of Cards" Houses, Cobh, The Titanic Trail, RMS Titanic Memorial, Cobh Rebel Walking Tours, Sirius Arts Centre, J.F. Kennedy Pier, restaurants: Titanic Bar and Grill, The Quays Bar & Restaurant, Kelly's Bar, The Roaring Donkey, Jacob's Ladder Restaurant, Cuppacity Coffee, Seasalt Cafe and Deli Cobh, Coffee Cove, Supermac's & Papa John's, O'Shea's Bar

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