Dreams of a pint under a spire? Right before us stands Saint Mary’s Church. It is now famously known as “The Church” pub and restaurant. This unique building at the corner of Mary Street and Jervis Street holds centuries of Dublin history.
From sacred space to social space. The story of Saint Mary’s Church is really an amazing transformation.
Once serving Dublin’s northside parishioners. Saint Mary’s Church now welcomes locals and tourists alike. It is enjoyed with food and drink. Let’s step back in time to appreciate the church’s origins.
Back in the early Middle Ages, this area fell under the parish of St. Michan’s. Following the dissolution of the monasteries, St. Mary’s parish was established in 1697. An act of Parliament officially separated it from St. Michan’s.
The current Saint Mary’s Church building was designed in 1697 by Sir William Robinson. Thomas Burgh oversaw some of the construction. The foundation stone was laid in 1700. Consecration happened in 1701. Saint Mary’s Church was the first in Dublin with galleries. Renatus Harris built its impressive organ.
Saint Mary’s Church quickly became a landmark on newly laid out Mary Street. Langford House was being constructed at the same time nearby.
Peter Broun served as the first rector. Later he became Provost of Trinity College. Robert Rochfort and Allen Brodrick were the first churchwardens. They held high positions as Attorney General and Solicitor General.
Saint Mary’s Church played a role in the lives of many notable figures. Arthur Guinness married Olivia Whitmore here in 1761. Theobald Wolfe Tone and Seán O’Casey were baptized here. Richard Brinsley Sheridan and the Earl of Charlemont were also baptized at Saint Mary’s.
Burials in the church vaults included Anne, daughter of the Bishop of Meath. Also, Rev. Rawlinson Foord and Charles Campbell. The remains were later cremated and reinterred at St. Michan’s.
The adjoining churchyard became the final resting place for Archibald Hamilton Rowan. Also, Mary Mercer and philosopher Francis Hutcheson are buried here. Lord Norbury, known as the “hanging judge,” was also buried here.
Sadly, Saint Mary’s Church closed its doors in 1986. The decline in parishioners led to its deconsecration. The building was repurposed as a retail outlet. Later, it was transformed into a pub. Initially named “John M. Keating Bar.” It was later renamed “The Church”.
The churchyard transformed into Wolfe Tone Square. Gravestones were stacked at the southern end.
Today, “The Church” retains many original features. The galleried interior is a highlight. It showcases classical timber design. The east window has grace and vivacity. The Ionic doorcase and original doors remain significant.
The high-reaching proportions combine with the organ case. Also, the east window and Corinthian reredos are highlights. Ornate joinery and modern alterations create a luxurious space.
Humphrey Jervis laid out Mary Street in the 1690s. The construction of Saint Mary’s Church followed the division of St. Michan’s parish. Saint Mary’s grounds the district in its earlier historic milieu.
So, raise a glass to Saint Mary’s Church. A place where history and hospitality meet. It is an outstanding and prominent landmark within Dublin’s overall architectural fabric.