Armagh - The Ecclesiastical Capital of Ireland
Armagh (Ard Mhacha - "Macha's Height") holds a unique place in Irish history and spirituality. Founded by St Patrick in 445 AD as his principal church, Armagh remains the ecclesiastical capital of all Ireland, home to both the Catholic and Church of Ireland Archbishops of Armagh, Primates of All Ireland.
The city's significance predates Christianity - the nearby Navan Fort was the royal seat of Ulster for 800 years before Patrick arrived. Today, Armagh is a beautifully preserved Georgian city with an atmosphere quite different from anywhere else in Northern Ireland.
Twin Cathedrals
Armagh is unique in having two cathedrals dedicated to St Patrick facing each other across the city:
St Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral
- Founded on the hill where St Patrick built his stone church in 445 AD
- Contains 9th-century high cross and medieval crypt
- Brian Boru, High King of Ireland, is buried here
- Free entry, donations welcome
St Patrick's Roman Catholic Cathedral
- Built 1840-1873 on the opposite hill
- Magnificent Italian Renaissance interior
- Stunning mosaics and marble throughout
- Free entry
Navan Fort (Emain Macha)
Navan Fort, 2 miles from the city centre, was the royal seat of Ulster for 800 years:
- Dating to 94 BC, associated with the Red Branch Knights
- Linked to legendary hero Cú Chulainn
- Visitor centre with exhibitions and café
- Atmospheric circular earthwork with views
Georgian Heritage
Armagh boasts some of Ireland's finest Georgian architecture:
- The Mall - elegant tree-lined promenade
- Armagh Observatory (founded 1790)
- Palace Demesne public park
- Georgian houses and terraces throughout
Things To Do in Armagh City
St Patrick's COI Cathedral
Ancient cathedral on Patrick's original site
St Patrick's RC Cathedral
Magnificent 19th-century cathedral with mosaics
Navan Fort
Ancient royal seat of Ulster, 2 miles from city
The Mall
Stroll the elegant Georgian promenade
Armagh Planetarium
Ireland's leading astronomy centre
Palace Demesne
Historic parkland and gardens
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Quick Facts
- Population
- ~15,000
- Founded
- 445 AD by St Patrick
- Famous For
- Twin cathedrals, ecclesiastical capital
Tours Visiting Armagh City
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Frequently Asked Questions About Armagh City
Everything you need to know before visiting
Explore Nearby Locations
Discover more incredible destinations in Northern Ireland
Newcastle
Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea - a Victorian seaside gem offering golden beaches, championship golf, and mountain adventures
Downpatrick
The final resting place of Saint Patrick - where Ireland's patron saint is buried beneath an ancient cathedral in a town steeped in Christian heritage
Hillsborough
Northern Ireland's only royal residence - a perfectly preserved Georgian village of castle gardens, tree-lined squares, and some of the region's finest dining