St. Michan's Church

Standing here on Church Street, we are at the western edge of the medieval walled city of Dublin. St. …

Step inside the nave and look toward the rear of the church to see one of St. Michan’s most prized treasures: the organ, installed in 1724. …

We are now descending the steep, narrow stone steps into the crypt. Please mind your head; the ceiling here is low, and the air immediately becomes cooler and noticeably drier. …

In this first vault, we encounter four figures known collectively as 'The Unknowns.' Look closely at the figure resting on the right-hand wall. She is believed to be female and is approximately 400 years old. …

We now move to the most famous resident of the crypts: the figure known as the Crusader. He is approximately 800 years old, dating back to the era when Irish knights joined the religious wars in the Holy Land. …

In a separate vault, we encounter a much more political and tragic chapter of Irish history. Here lie the remains of the Shears brothers, John and Henry, who were key figures in the 1798 Rebellion. …

As we move further into the crypt, we see vaults belonging to some of Ireland's most prominent aristocratic families. Unlike the simple wooden coffins of 'The Unknowns,' these are often highly decorated, some even adorned with…

As we climb back up into the light of the nave, take a deep breath of the fresh Dublin air. The experience of St. …