St. Catherine's Church

1177

This fine mid Georgian church was built in a heavy Palladian style between 1760-69. The architect was John Smyth although Joseph Jarratt appears to have assisted. The rich Doric façade of the north elevation is powerful and rigourous although the stonework is now much decayed. The remaining elevations are plainly treated. The interior has a broad nave with galleries carried on square tapered Ionic columns. Corinthian columns to the upper level carry a shallow vaulted ceiling enriched with bands of Greek key decoration. The chancel is lavishly decorated with Rococo plasterwork and a great pedimented reredos. On the 20th September 1803, the united Irishman, Robert Emmet was executed outside the church.

Historic/Original Architect(s)