St Fethlimidh’s Cathedral is a cathedral in the village of Kilemore (not to be confused with Kylemore in Connemara), 5.6km southwest of the town of Cavan. Magnificent, it is one of 2 cathedrals in the diocese of Kilmore, Ardagh and Elphin.
The cathedral is located not far from a wooded area, and has a rather pleasant, bucolic setting. It’s easy to get to, with parking available in a specially-designed parking lot.
One of the most interesting aspects of the building is the 12th-century Romanesque portal on the outside of the sacristy. The finesse of its architecture is simply sublime. (It has to be said that the building has been renovated at a cost of over a million euros!)
On another positive note, the cathedral is said to possess an original copy of the first translation of the Old Testament into Irish by William Bedell , Bishop of Kilmore 1629-1642. This rare work is on display in the building itself and is the pride of the people of Kilemore! On the program: illumination, calligraphy and old paper… A delight for lovers of art and medieval Irish history! In short, a manuscript in the same vein as the Book of Kells on display at Trinity College, Dublin.
During your visit, don’t miss the 1860 organ. The latter was designed by Charles Brindley of Sheffield, and restored in 2011.
Overall, the place is quiet and beautiful, with vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows that filter the light outside. Photos are tolerated, as long as flash photography is avoided.
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