St.Columb's Cathedral
St. Columb's Cathedral stands within the historic walls of Londonderry as the mother church of the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe and a enduring symbol of the city's Anglican heritage. Completed in 1633, it was the first cathedral built in the British Isles after the Reformation and is dedicated to St. Columba, the Irish monk who founded a monastery here in the 6th century. The building itself is a beautiful example of Plantation-era architecture, constructed from local stone and featuring a handsome spire that rises above the city walls.
Inside, the cathedral is a treasure trove of history. It houses numerous artifacts from the Great Siege of 1689, including the original locks and keys of the city gates and a hollow cannonball used to send messages into the city. The stained-glass windows and memorials tell stories of centuries of worship and community. The atmosphere is one of peaceful reverence, offering a quiet respite from the bustling city outside. A visit to St. Columb's is not only an architectural and historical delight but also a chance to connect with the deep spiritual heritage that has been a cornerstone of Londonderry for nearly four hundred years.
