Galway Cathedral

Cathedral in Galway

Galway - Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Olliebailie

The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and Saint Nicholas is a modern structure, not steeped in ancient history. Its inception dates back to 1958, with completion occurring in 1965. Despite its recent construction, it holds the distinction of being the most recent stone cathedral built in Europe.

Architect John J. Robinson designed the Cathedral, drawing inspiration from Renaissance architecture evident in its dome and octagonal columns. Standing at 145 feet tall, the dome significantly impacts the city skyline. The Cathedral was inaugurated on August 15, 1965.

During the opening ceremony, Eamon de Valera, President of Ireland, lit the sanctuary candle. Cardinal Richard Cushing of Boston, USA, delivered a sermon, while Bishop Michael Browne of Galway presided over the altar with four Archbishops.

Since its dedication, the Cathedral has been home to an adult choir, performing sacred music ranging from the 16th to the 21st centuries, including Gregorian Chant and traditional Irish music, notably at the Sunday 11 am mass.

The pipe organ, originally built in 1966 by Rushworth & Dreaper of Liverpool, has undergone restoration by organ-builder Trevor Crowe. It features three manuals and 59 speaking stops. Additionally, a portable organ with one manual and four stops serves in side chapels and concert continuo roles.

Located on Nun’s Island along the west bank of the River Corrib, near Salmon Weir Bridge, the Cathedral stands on the former site of the city jail.

The Galway Cathedral appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Galway!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting Galway Cathedral

Hours:

8:30 am to 6:30 pm


Price:

Free

Duration: 20 minutes

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs