St. Mary's Cathedral

St Mary's Cathedral in Limerick is the oldest building in continuous daily use in the city, founded in 1168 by Donal Mór O'Brien, the last King of Munster. According to tradition, the cathedral was built on the site of his royal palace, and parts of the original Romanesque structure, including the great west doorway, survive within the present building. It serves as the cathedral church of the United Dioceses of Limerick and Killaloe in the Church of Ireland.

Inside, visitors will find a remarkable collection of medieval and later features. The 15th-century misericords in the choir stalls are unique in Ireland, carved with figures of angels, animals and grotesques. The nave is lined with tombs and memorials spanning more than 800 years of Limerick history, including monuments to the Earls of Thomond and the O'Brien family. Stained glass windows, the Leper's Squint and a number of fine wall plaques add further interest, and the cathedral hosts regular concerts thanks to its excellent acoustics.

Set on King's Island within the medieval heart of Limerick, the cathedral stands a short walk from King John's Castle and the River Shannon. It is easily reached on foot from Limerick city centre and the main bus and rail stations.