Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church, Cork
A Gothic Revival jewel in Cork, Saints Peter and Paul's Church captivates with its red sandstone grandeur and serene, art-filled interior.
Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Cork is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, designed by E.W. Pugin and completed in 1864. Built of red sandstone with limestone dressings, the church features a richly decorated interior with red marble columns, intricate wooden ceilings, and vibrant stained glass windows. It serves as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark, reflecting Cork's religious heritage and architectural grandeur.
A brief summary to Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church
- 35 Paul St, Cork, Centre, T12 K8V0, IE
- +353214276573
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6:45 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6:45 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7:45 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6:45 pm
- Friday 8 am-6:45 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a peaceful experience with fewer visitors.
- Look up to admire the intricately carved wooden ceiling featuring angelic motifs.
- Take time to appreciate the stained glass windows that color the interior with vibrant light.
- The church is free to enter, but donations are welcome to support its upkeep.
- Photography is encouraged, especially of the red sandstone facade and detailed interior features.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Bus Éireann routes serving Cork city center, with stops near Paul Street. Buses run frequently with travel times from central Cork bus stations around 10-20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately €2-€4. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Cork city center to Saints Peter and Paul's Church typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi fares range from €6 to €12. Taxis are widely available but can be limited during peak hours or special events.
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Walking
If staying within Cork city center, the church is reachable on foot within 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is along paved urban streets and is accessible for most mobility levels.
Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church
Architectural Masterpiece of Gothic Revival
Saints Peter and Paul's Church stands as a distinguished example of Gothic Revival architecture in Cork, Ireland. Designed by Edward Welby Pugin, son of the famed Augustus Pugin who spearheaded the Gothic revival movement, the church was constructed between 1859 and 1864. Its exterior is crafted from striking red sandstone complemented by limestone dressings, featuring pointed arch windows with elaborate carved limestone tracery. The western entrance is marked by a recessed doorway with ornamental ironwork and a grand window above, all framed by a series of small blank arches that add depth and texture to the facade.Interior Richness and Artistic Details
Inside, the church reveals an awe-inspiring space where polished red marble columns support arcades separating the nave from the side aisles. The clerestory windows flood the interior with natural light, illuminating twelve marble plinths each bearing a statue of an apostle. The timber roof is an open framework with principal beams resting on intricately carved corbels depicting angelic choirs. Notable features include a high altar designed by George Ashlin and executed by Samuel Daly, a finely carved Russian oak pulpit, and exquisite stained glass windows by Barnetts of Leith and Earley, which bathe the sanctuary in vibrant colors.Historical and Cultural Significance
The church was built on a site where Catholic worship was once restricted, symbolizing a significant moment in Cork’s religious history. It remains a vital spiritual center for the local Catholic community and an architectural landmark that highlights the craftsmanship and religious devotion of the 19th century. The building’s design also served as an early template for George Ashlin’s later ecclesiastical works across Ireland, marking it as a key milestone in Irish architectural heritage.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Saints Peter and Paul's Church often remark on the serene and contemplative atmosphere inside, enhanced by the peaceful interplay of light through stained glass and the warm hues of marble and timber. The church’s relatively compact urban setting contrasts with the grandeur of its interior, offering a hidden sanctuary amid Cork’s bustling city center. The ornamental ironwork, angel carvings on the ceiling, and the impressive Carrara marble altar create a visually captivating environment for reflection and admiration.Preservation and Artistic Heritage
The church retains many original features, including carved confessionals, the pulpit, and the high altar, all showcasing high-quality workmanship. Its preservation allows modern visitors to step back into a richly artistic and spiritual past, appreciating the dedication to detail that defines Gothic Revival ecclesiastical architecture. The church’s red sandstone and limestone materials also contribute to its distinctive aesthetic, adding color and texture that enhance its visual impact.Community and Spiritual Role Today
Today, Saints Peter and Paul's Church continues to serve as an active place of worship and a cultural treasure in Cork. It hosts regular services and remains open to visitors seeking spiritual solace or architectural inspiration. Its location on Paul Street places it within easy reach of Cork’s city center, making it a valued landmark for both locals and tourists interested in the city’s religious and architectural history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Bishop Lucey Park
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Michael Collins Statue
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Oliver Plunkett St
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Essential places to dine
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Restaurant 14a
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The Woodford
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The Oyster Tavern
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Bella Napoli
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CoqBull
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Cornstore Cork
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Nosta Restaurant
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The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega
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Luigi Malones Cork
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Brick Lane
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51 Cornmarket
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nine Crows Cork
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Pinocchio's Toys & Gifts
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Paul Street Shopping Centre
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Carrolls Irish Gifts Store
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Casa Craft
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The Cornmarket Centre
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St Augustine's Shop
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The English Market
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The North Face Cork
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
