Howth Church

Built on the site of two previous churches that came before it, St. Mary’s Church was likely built between the late 14^th – early 15^th century. The first church dates back to 1042, which was founded by Sigtrygg, the then King of Dublin. The second church was in 1235 and founded by the Archbishop of Dublin. Very little remains today of either. The present ruins was once a collegiate church, served by three or more priests.

Situated on Howth Hill, the church has panoramic views of Howth harbour and Ireland’s Eye (an island). Built of coursed masonry, the church is double aisled, and contains the 15^th century effigial tomb of Sir Christopher St Lawrence and his wife, Anna Plunkett, who died in 1462. St Lawrence was an ancestor of the Earls of Howth.

The graveyard surrounding the church ruins is now looked after by Fingal County Council, while the Holy Well nearby is said to contain curing properties for healing sore eyes.

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This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014