Christ Church Cathedral

Dublin's most ancient building
Talk of the town: In March 2012, the preserved heart of the church's founding father, St Laurence O'Toole, was stolen - one of a number of recent relic thefts in Ireland.

Noteworthy for: In the crypt are a mummified cat and mouse known as 'Tom and Jerry' and mentioned by James Joyce in 'Finnegan's Wake'.
St Patrick's may be more famous, but some would argue that the city's second medieval cathedral has more charm. It's certainly even more ancient, dating back to around 1030, and is justly proud of the fact that its bells have pealed over the city since the early 1400s.

The belfry has recently been opened up to visitors, and you can also view the impressive collection of church treasures and parish silver in the treasury. To see the church at its most magnificent, time your visit to catch Choral Evensong at 6pm on Thursday and 3.30pm on Sunday, or the Sunday Eucharist at 11am. And if you fancy having a go at ringing the famous bells, you're given the opportunity on a guided tour of the tower.