St. Mary’s Parish 1697

The parish of St. Mary’s was formed in 1697. This is the heart of Dublin’s northside. It was a place of faith, activity and bustling life. St. Mary’s Parish 1697 was created by an act of Parliament, separating it from the established St. Michan’s Parish. This new parish stretched across Dublin’s northside, offering a new place of worship for those residing in the fast-growing area. It needed a church, and so, the construction of the current building began in the late 17th century. In 1700, the foundation stone was laid for the church. It was designed by Sir William Robinson, a prominent architect of the time. St. Mary’s is recognized as being the first church in Dublin to be built with galleries, a testament to the innovative spirit and growing population of the time. It is a beautiful example of architectural grandeur and stands as a testament to Dublin’s rich history. It was consecrated in 1701, and the organ was built by the renowned Renatus Harris. Today, the church is deconsecrated and is a lively pub called “The Church,” a reminder of its long and colorful past. But imagine, as you stand here, the echoes of parishioners reciting their prayers. You can almost see the wedding of Arthur Guinness and Olivia Whitmore in 1761. Or picture the christening of Theobald Wolfe Tone in 1763 in the very same font where the playwright Sean O’Casey was christened in 1880. The stories of St. Mary’s Parish 1697 weave together people of all walks of life, reminding us that this church was a vibrant hub of Dublin life.