Description of the attraction
Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and St. Nicholas Cathedral, better known as Galway Cathedral, is located in the city center and is one of its main attractions. The 44-meter dome of the cathedral is clearly visible from almost anywhere in Galway.
This is not an old church, its construction began in 1958, and in 1965 the cathedral was consecrated. It is the youngest large stone cathedral in Europe. It is located on the site of the former city prison, which was notorious for the brutality of the guards. For the construction of the cathedral, mainly local materials were used. The architectural style of the cathedral can be defined as Irish-Romanesque. This is a unique 11th century Irish style that existed before the Norman invasion. Architect John Robinson has previously built many churches throughout Ireland, all of which have a similar, recognizable style.
The interior of the cathedral is decorated with magnificent stained glass windows, carvings and frescoes. Floor marble was also mined near Galway, in the Connemara area. Particular attention is drawn to two large stained-glass windows - "roses", one with six "petals", the second - with five. It can take more than one hour to inspect the cathedral.
The choir of the cathedral performs not only church chants, but also traditional Irish music. The cathedral has two organs, a large and a small one. The excellent acoustics of the cathedral make organ and choral concerts unforgettable.
