St Mary's Cathedral, Kilkenny

St. Mary's Cathedral stands as the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ossory, playing a central role in the city's religious and architectural heritage.

Designed by William Deane Butler (c.1794-1857), the cathedral's construction was initiated by Bishop William Kinsella (1793-1845) in February 1842. Building commenced in April 1843 and reached completion in 1857. The grand opening of St. Mary's took place on Sunday, October 4, 1857, with a significant ceremony lasting two and three-quarter hours, beginning at 6:15 am. The estimated cost of constructing the cathedral was £25,000.

Crafted from locally sourced cut limestone, St. Mary's Cathedral features a cruciform plan and is stylistically categorized as 'Early English Gothic.' The design is believed to have drawn inspiration from Gloucester Cathedral in Gloucester, England. Strategically situated atop the highest point in Kilkenny City, the cathedral stands as a prominent local landmark, adding to the city's distinctive skyline.

The steeple of St. Mary's houses a bell crafted by John Murphy, a Dublin foundry, contributing to the cathedral's auditory presence in the city. Among its notable artistic features is a sculpture of the Madonna created by Giovanni Maria Benzoni (1809-1873), adding a touch of elegance and religious significance to the cathedral's interior.