Nestled behind Dublin’s Four Courts, St. Michan’s Church is the oldest parish church on Dublin’s northside, dating back to 1095 the location has since been renovated. The venue houses a grand pipe organ and holds mass regularly but what’s hidden beneath is even more intriguing!
The Story of St Michan’s Church
The tombs of many of Dublin's most prominent families from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries lie beneath St Michan's. Among the residents are the Sheares brothers, republican revolutionaries who were hanged for high treason following the Irish Rebellion 1798.
The vaults belonged to wealthy families, and several coffins are eye-catching, decorated with gold studs and ornate plaques, some of which belong to the Earls of Leitrim. The most distinguished mummies in the vaults are four uncovered corpses known as 'The Big Four' — the Thief, the Nun, and the Crusader.
Since the Victorian era, visitors have been descending the vault steps to view the mummies of St Michan’s. Many people have reported hearing whispers nearby, while others have experienced the eerie sensation of being watched.
Hop off at stop 24 to glimpse the medieval church. While you're in the area, explore Dublinia, Christ Church Cathedral, and the Jameson Bow St Distillery for a more cultural experience.
