Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Italy
Luxembourg
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Church · Galway, Galway
Galway Cathedral
The Catholic stone cathedral consecrated in 1965 on the banks of the River Corrib, with a green dome, Connemara marble floors, mosaics and rose windows, on the site of the city's former jail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Galway Cathedral
A Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção e São Nicolau, known as Catedral de Galway, was built between 1958 and 1965 on the site of the city's former jail, on the banks of the River Corrib. It was one of the last large stone cathedrals erected in Europe, constructed with the region's grey limestone and topped by a green copper dome visible from many points around Galway.
The design, by architect John J. Robinson, blends Romanesque and Renaissance influences, with rounded arches, columns and a cruciform plan. The floor is green Connemara marble, quarried west of the city, and the interior features modern rose windows and stained glass, a large organ and mosaics in the side chapels.
One of the most talked-about mosaics is in the Chapel of the Resurrection: among the figures appear John F. Kennedy, who visited Galway in 1963, and Patrick Pearse, leader of the 1916 Rising, alongside the risen Christ. The stone stations of the Via Crucis and the sculptures on the façade complete the decoration.
The cathedral operates as a parish church, with daily Masses, and hosts organ and choral concerts. Opposite, the Salmon Weir Bridge crosses the Corrib, and from the bridge it is common to see salmon heading upriver in season, typically from spring into summer.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning or mid‑afternoon, outside Mass times. Late in the afternoon the light on the dome and the river looks beautiful from the Salmon Weir Bridge.
How to get there
It is on Gaol Road, on the banks of the River Corrib, a 10‑minute walk from Eyre Square. Cross the river via the Salmon Weir Bridge, which links the centre to the cathedral.
Tip
Look for the mosaic featuring John F. Kennedy in the Chapel of the Resurrection, to the left of the altar. On your way out, stop at the Salmon Weir Bridge to look at the river: in season, salmon often pause against the current before jumping the weir.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Galway Cathedral
Is Galway Cathedral old?
No. It was built between 1958 and 1965, but in stone and in the style of the great historic cathedrals, which fools many visitors.
Why does Kennedy appear in a mosaic?
The American president, of Irish descent, visited Galway in June 1963, months before he was assassinated. The mosaic in the Chapel of the Resurrection depicts him alongside Patrick Pearse.
Can you see the salmon in the river?
From the Salmon Weir Bridge, opposite the cathedral, it's common to see salmon swimming up the Corrib in season, typically from spring to summer, but numbers vary a lot.