St Fin Barre's Cathedral

St Fin Barre's Cathedral rises above the south channel of the River Lee in the heart of Cork, its three white spires one of the city's landmarks. It was designed by the Victorian architect William Burges, consecrated in 1870, and built in French Gothic style, with a west front crowded with sculpture. The site is traditionally linked with St Finbarr, who founded a monastery here in the sixth or seventh century, and the cathedral says that worship has taken place on the spot for well over a thousand years. Inside, the mosaics, painted ceilings, marble and richly coloured glass reward a long look.

Burges poured imagination into the interior, and the result is unlike most Irish churches. The chancel is covered in mosaic and gilded detail, the pulpit and bishop's throne are elaborately carved, and the windows are filled with scenes in strong colour. Look up for the painted ceiling, and look at the stone figures that decorate the exterior, which include a number of whimsical creatures. The organ and the chapter house are worth a look, and the cathedral is still a working place of worship, so quiet is expected during services.

Visiting is straightforward. The cathedral is open Monday to Saturday, with limited Sunday hours from April to October and, from November to March, Sundays only for services. A modest entry fee applies, with concessions for students and seniors and free entry for children with an adult. There is no public parking on site, so walk or take a taxi. It is wheelchair accessible, although there are no public toilets.

The cathedral is a ten-minute walk from the English Market and sits close to the University College Cork grounds, so it fits easily into a city walk. Allow about forty-five minutes, or longer if you join a tour. It pairs well with Shandon on the north bank, and with the Gaol if you like the hill route. In bright afternoon light the west front looks its best, and on rainy days the interior colour makes up for the weather.