Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Sligo, Ireland

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Sligo was developed by Bishop Laurence Gillooly who had been appointed Bishop of Elphin in 1858. He decided that the diocese was now of a size and wealth that the time had come to replace St. John's Parish Chapel, which had been recognised as the diocesan pro-cathedral.

He engaged George Goldie, one of the foremost Catholic architects in England in the nineteenth century. The cathedral was opened for divine worship on 26 July 1874 by Cardinal Paul Cullen of Dublin.

Modelled on a Normano–Romano–Byzantine style, it is the only example of a Romanesque style cathedral built during the 19th century. Designed in the shape of a basilica, the church has a square, pyramid-capped tower, which reaches a height of 70 metres, and supporting turrets at the west end. The circular baptistery incorporated in the apse with its five lancet windows behind the high altar, was originally designed as a mortuary chapel.

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User Reviews

Nishanth Thomas (2 years ago)
Has a divine atmosphere for praying. Four Catholic holy mass on Sundays, including the mass at 7 p.m. On Sundays the mass timings are 8.30 am, 10.30 am, 12.00 am 7.00 pm. An adoration chappal is also located nearby. Parking facility available including disabled parking.

Johannah Furlong (2 years ago)
Beautiful cathedral with a lovely Mass broadcasted Sunday mornings

Malcolm McDonagh (2 years ago)
The HQ of the catholic church in the town of sligo seat of the bishop of elphin. This church has been serving catholics since 1875. My mum an dad got married here and today its my local church

Dorothea Schroeder (2 years ago)
This was my second visit to the Cathedral and it is beautiful. I lite a candle for my Great Grandparents 126th wedding anniversary.

Jack Wilmith (2 years ago)
While I wouldn't describe it as a turn-of-the-century gem, it certainly pleases the eye. The presbytery building with the statue of the bishop and a gabled window is very well detailed. The interiors of the church are quite dark, due to quite small windows located mostly up in the main nave. Very interesting coloured mosaic floors.

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