St. Mary's Cathedral

Killarney Cathedral featuring heritage architecture, heritage elements and interior views
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In a green field stands an impressive cathedral especially beloved by its townsfolk. Inside, find a welcoming community church decorated with beautiful stained glass.

Step inside Killarney Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Ireland, to find a peaceful, beautiful church with gorgeous stained glass, carrying living history on its walls. Also known as St. Mary’s Cathedral or the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, this is an important landmark in Killarney and one that brings pride to its citizens.

From the outside of Killarney Cathedral, see a detailed and dramatic façade with tall, narrow arched lancet windows and pointed roofs. The central tower reaches up to a dizzying height in the sky, its point topped with a cross.

This Gothic Revival cathedral was designed by famous English architect Augustus Pugin and is said to be one of his favorite works. When commissioned in 1840, he set about making a homage to a cathedral that he loved, Salisbury Cathedral in England, so some similarities are evident. Construction of the cathedral was paused during the terrible Great Famine, when the sick and dying found refuge and care here inside a makeshift hospital.

Large parts of the stone interior date from the 1970s, the most recent refurbishment. At the west end is a gallery housing a huge pipe organ. Light streams through the intricate stained-glass windows onto the Tasmanian oak in the altar, pulpit, chairs and throne and the baptismal font made of limestone.

Light a candle and enjoy for a few minutes the serenity of a cathedral that rivals any of the most famous sites of Europe. The acoustics are stunning, enhancing the beauty of sacred music from the choir or organ. Look for a huge redwood tree near the western entrance, a tribute to children who died during the famine.

Killarney Cathedral stands in a wide green field. It is a short walk from both the center of town and the green reserves beyond, through which the River Deenagh runs. Visit at any time of day and speak with a parish volunteer who can tell you about the history of the cathedral and parish.

Top Trending Hotels Near St. Mary's Cathedral

Killarney Court Hotel
Killarney Court Hotel
3 out of 5
Tralee Road, Killarney
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €119 per night from 5 Jun to 6 Jun
€119
per night
5 Jun - 6 Jun
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Killarney. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and breakfast. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the comfy beds ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (157 reviews)
"The equipment in the rooms are fairly old but functional. The room is clean and comfortable."

Reviewed on 27 May 2023

Killarney Court Hotel
The Lake Hotel Killarney
The Lake Hotel Killarney
4 out of 5
On The Lake Shore, Muckross Road, Killarney, Kerry, 9359
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €225 per night from 5 Jun to 6 Jun
€225
per night
5 Jun - 6 Jun
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Killarney. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant in their ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (997 reviews)
"Beautiful property right on the lake with amazing views. Hotel has an old charm which is warm and inviting. Great location, staff are friendly as well, I would love to stay here again."

Reviewed on 29 May 2023

The Lake Hotel Killarney
The International Hotel Killarney
The International Hotel Killarney
4 out of 5
Kenmare Place, Killarney, Kerry
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €184 per night from 5 Jun to 6 Jun
€184
per night
5 Jun - 6 Jun
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Killarney. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants and breakfast. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (598 reviews)
"Hotel was very nice, staff super nice. Some rooms with AC and some not."

Reviewed on 29 May 2023

The International Hotel Killarney
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Killarney Court Hotel
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The Lake Hotel Killarney
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Parkavon Hotel
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The Killarney Park
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.