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University Church – St Stephen’s Green
Work, commenced on the building of the Newman University Church in May 1855. It opened a year later on Ascension Day. The church was formally dedicated to “Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom”.
A Church Steeped in History
Work on the building of the Newman University Church commenced in May 1855 and it opened a year later on Ascension Day. Although placed under the protection of St. Peter and St. Paul, the church was formally dedicated to “Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom”. The interior decoration was completed some months later.
The church is distinctive in its architectural style and exceptional in its decoration. It holds a special place in the heart and heritage of Dublin city, embracing both Eastern and Western Christian traditions.
Architectural Highlights
Access to the church is through a striking porch of polychromatic brick with four short columns bearing the symbols of the four evangelists and six angels. Inside, an atrium leads down six steps into the rectangular nave, following the dimensions of the original garden site. The floor is paved with unglazed Staffordshire black and red tiles.
A flat ceiling supported by red-painted beams and joists rests above the nave, with light filtering through irregularly spaced windows made from glass sourced in a Dublin bottle factory.
The Sanctuary and Decoration
The sanctuary, raised above the nave, is approached by five steps and separated by a short alabaster communion rail. The original altar frontal contains twelve discs of Derbyshire fluorspar crystal, while six tall Byzantine candlesticks and a brass cross complete the ensemble. The semi-dome above the sanctuary was inspired by the apse of San Clemente in Rome.
The church’s walls are adorned with marble from Kilkenny, Galway, Cork, Armagh, and Offaly—reflecting the diverse richness of Irish craftsmanship. Above, large paintings chosen by John Henry Newman depict religious scenes, though the originals were replaced at the 150th anniversary after darkening over time.
The Gallery and Acoustics
A choir gallery supported by eight marble pillars extends over nine metres along the Gospel side, while an ornate pulpit opposite rests on four marble pillars featuring the evangelists’ symbols. The low gallery extends 14 metres into the church, providing seating for around 100 people, with a total capacity of 600.
Shortly after Newman’s return to England, an organ was installed in the gallery. The church’s height and tiled floors contribute to excellent acoustics—perfect for wedding music and choral performances.
The Lady Chapel
Added in 1875, the Lady Chapel features beautiful stained-glass windows illustrating “The Nativity,” “The Adoration of the Wise Men,” and “Christ with the Doctors in the Temple.”
It provides an intimate space for reflection and smaller gatherings, complementing the grandeur of the main sanctuary.
A Glimpse Inside a Newman Wedding
Watch a video highlights reel of a wedding at Newman University Church.
Visitor Information
Address: University Church, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
Contact: 01 475 9674 | info@universitychurch.ie
Planning Your Ceremony?
If you are considering Newman University Church for your wedding ceremony, explore local musicians who regularly perform in Dublin city centre, including female singers, string quartets, and instrumentalists.
Browse Local Musicians