DOWNPATRICK CATHEDRAL
From Atlas and Cyclopedia of Ireland (1900)
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DOWNPATRICK CATHEDRAL.—This cathedral is built on the site of a cathedral, one of the most ancient edifices in Ireland, which was destroyed by the Danes, and in which, it is said, the remains of St. Patrick, St. Bridget and St. Columbkill were buried. It was erected by Malachy O'Morgair, Bishop of Down, in 1140, and was burned during the war of Edward Bruce, was restored in 1412, again burned by Lord Deputy De Grey in 1538. In 1790 the present structure was erected on its ruins. A handsome east window divided by mullions into twelve compartments, in the choir, appears to be the only window remaining of the splendid edifice erected in 1412, and destroyed by De Grey. The present structure comprises a nave, choir and aisles, with a lofty square tower at the left end, embattled and pinnacled, giving the cathedral, which stands on a hill, a massive and imposing appearance. The interior is richly ornamented. From 1538 to 1790 the church at Lisburn served as a cathedral.
Down Cathedral, Downpatrick
Description of County Down | Down Cathedral | Grey Abbey | Bangor | Down Map