Church of Christ the King, Cork

The Church of Christ the King in Cork City is a remarkable architectural achievement and an important historical landmark. It was designed by the American architect Barry Byrne, making it the first church in Ireland to be designed by a foreign architect. The church was built between 1929 and 1931 by John Buckley and was opened on the Feast of Christ the King on Sunday, 25th October 1931.

One of the most notable features of the church is its construction. Unlike traditional churches, which were built from brick or stone, the Church of Christ the King was constructed entirely from concrete. This made it not only unique for its time but also one of the largest suspended-ceiling churches in Europe. The church has a seating capacity of 1,200 people, and its interior is both spacious and awe-inspiring.

Another interesting aspect of the Church of Christ the King is its museum, which contains numerous artifacts of historical significance. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the church and the community it serves.

One of the most notable features of the Church of Christ the King is the large sculpture of Christ the King by John Maguire, which is situated above the entrance. This work of public art is a landmark and adds to the church's visual impact. The architect, Francis Barry Byrne, was strongly influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright, and this influence can be seen in the church's design.

The church's construction and design were commissioned by Bishop Daniel Cohalan of Cork in 1927. At that time, the Feast of Christ the King was a recent addition to the Church's calendar, having been introduced by Pope Pius XI in 1925. The Pope's encyclical, Quas Primas, emphasised the importance of recognising Christ as King and the need for the Church to teach this doctrine.

Today, the Feast of Christ the King is celebrated by many Christian denominations, including Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists and others, through the Revised Common Lectionary. The Church of Christ the King continues to be an important religious and cultural landmark in Cork City, and its unique design and history make it a must-see for visitors to the area.