Inspired by the Cloth Hall at Bruges

Carlow Cathedral was built in 1833 on the site of a former penal church. It was designed by the famous architect Thomas A. Cobden, who also designed Duckett’s Grove and The Browne-Clayton Monument. The Cathedral’s magnificent tower and lantern were inspired by The Cloth Hall at Bruges and reach 136 feet making it the highest point in Carlow Town. Inside, notable features are the main altar in the center, which is made from Sicilian marble, and the exquisitely carved oak pulpit. In 2003 the Easter Ceremonies were broadcasted to Europe by RTE. In 2013 Christmas Eve mass and the Christmas Day Eurovision were celebrated by Bishop Denis Nulty and again broadcasted to Europe from the cathedral. Father Ted would have loved this parish.