St Michan's Church, Dublin - Looking up at St. Patrick's Cathedral, in Dublin, Ireland.
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St Michan's Church Dublin

4.6
·889 reviews·, Ireland

Discover Dublin's ancient past in St. Michan's Crypt, home to remarkably preserved mummies and centuries of history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Tues & Thurs mornings

Limited tour times

CrowdMedium
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St Michan's Church, Dublin - Looking up at St. Patrick's Cathedral, in Dublin, Ireland.

St Michan's Church Dublin

Best Time

Tues & Thurs mornings

Limited tour times

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Dublin's ancient past in St. Michan's Crypt, home to remarkably preserved mummies and centuries of history.

4.6
(889 reviews)

"A truly unique and eerie Dublin experience, the mummies of St. Michan's Crypt are unforgettable."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Opening Status First

Recent closures due to damage mean you MUST verify if tours are running before you go.

Dust Mask Recommended

Some visitors suggest wearing a mask for the crypt's air quality.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mummified Remains

The Mummified Remains

St. Michan's Crypt

Come face-to-face with ancient mummies, a truly unique and eerie historical experience.

Historic Church Architecture

Historic Church Architecture

St. Michan's Church

Explore a Church of Ireland building with over 900 years of history and distinctive architectural features.

The Crypt's Atmosphere

The Crypt's Atmosphere

St. Michan's Crypt

Experience the chilling, ancient ambiance of the crypt, a place frozen in time.

Planning Your Visit

Crypt Access & Hours

St. Michan's Crypt tours have historically been limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays, with specific morning and afternoon slots. However, recent reports indicate potential closures due to fire and water damage, so always check their official status before visiting. Reddit+1

Prepare for the Crypt

The St. Michan's crypt is an atmospheric, ancient space. Some visitors recommend wearing a dust mask due to the air quality. Reddit The unique experience of seeing the mummified remains is a major draw, but be prepared for a somewhat rustic environment.

Best Times

When
Tues & Thurs mornings
Why
Limited tour times
Crowd
Medium
When
Tues & Thurs afternoons
Why
Limited tour times
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is one of the most interesting and unique things you can do in Dublin! St Michan’s Crypt is open to visitors Tues, Wed and Thurs from 10am-12:30pm and 2-4pm. You drop in and purchase tickets at t...
@iliketravelandmovies
3.4K likes • 101.5K views

Check Opening Status First

Recent closures due to damage mean you MUST verify if tours are running before you go. Reddit+1

Dust Mask Recommended

Some visitors suggest wearing a mask for the crypt's air quality. Reddit

reddit.com

St Michan's Crypt Hours

reddit.com

St Michan’s

Limited Tour Days

Tours are typically only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Reddit

No Pre-booking Needed (Usually)

Historically, you could just show up, but always check current policies. Reddit

reddit.com

Help me plan my second day in Dublin!

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Status First

Recent closures due to damage mean you MUST verify if tours are running before you go. Reddit+1

Dust Mask Recommended

Some visitors suggest wearing a mask for the crypt's air quality. Reddit

Limited Tour Days

Tours are typically only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Reddit

No Pre-booking Needed (Usually)

Historically, you could just show up, but always check current policies. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(889 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the unique and eerie experience of St. Michan's Crypt, particularly the mummified remains. While the historical significance and atmospheric nature of the crypt are highly praised, recent reports of closures due to damage have caused disappointment for some potential visitors. It's essential to verify operating status before planning a trip. Reddit+2

"I came here for the guided tour of the church and vaults and it was a wonderful experience. My tour guide was Andrew and he delivered his material with so much knowledge, thoughtfulness, and compassion. I will be coming back with my husband/friends. I also recommend taking a quick stroll through the churchyard if you have time as it's very pretty and peaceful."

Tamara Malone

"I ain’t even a religious person, I read about this 300 years old church where mummies were buried underneath, my curiosity drew me to this place.
There was a small group of tourists.
If you visit Dublin, I recommend this church on your itinerary."

Adrianne Cheung

"My family visited this beautiful historic church on our last day in Dublin. While we were on other tours, I had heard several people mention this hidden treasure. It is very close to Jameson and we had not realized what we could have missed. Olive and Beatrice were so kind and helpful on the office. You can tell they are proud of this church and its history. Andrew, our guide was wonderful. Her gave us so much information on the details of the church and the crypts underneath. Stepping down into the crypts felt like stepping into another time period. I highly recommend taking a tour through this piece of history."

Evelyn Lichtman

What People Like

Unique mummified remains
Eerie crypt atmosphere
Fascinating history

What People Dislike

Potential closures
Limited opening days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Michan's Church is located on Church Street, near Arran Quay in Dublin 7. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also feasible, taking about 15-20 minutes. TikTok

Access to the church itself may be possible, but the crypt is underground and involves stairs, making it generally inaccessible for wheelchairs. It's best to contact the church directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information. Reddit

From Temple Bar, you can enjoy a pleasant walk across the River Liffey, which takes around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, several bus routes pass through the area, offering a quick ride to the vicinity of the church. TikTok

Street parking can be challenging in this area of Dublin. It's advisable to use public transport or consider nearby multi-story car parks if you are driving. Reddit

Yes, it's a walkable distance, approximately 25-30 minutes. You'll cross the River Liffey and head north. It's a good way to see more of the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Historically, tours were limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays, with specific morning and afternoon slots. However, due to recent damage, the church and crypt have experienced closures. Always check their official website or social media for the most current operating status. Reddit+2

In the past, pre-booking wasn't typically required, and visitors could purchase tickets on arrival. Given the potential for closures and limited tour times, it's wise to confirm if advance booking is now necessary or recommended. Reddit

Ticket prices can vary, but historically, there has been an admission fee for the crypt tour. It's best to check the official St. Michan's Church website for the most up-to-date pricing information. TikTok

St. Michan's is an active Church of Ireland parish. While services are held, access to the crypt is usually via guided tours during specific hours. Check their schedule for service times if you wish to attend. Reddit

A typical tour of St. Michan's Crypt lasts around 30-45 minutes, allowing ample time to explore the crypt and learn about its history from the guide. TikTok

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

The main draw is the opportunity to see the remarkably preserved mummified remains of individuals from centuries past, including the 'Crusader' and 'The Nun'. You'll also see ancient coffins and experience the unique, dry atmosphere of the crypt. TikTokReddit

The experience can be eerie and fascinating due to the mummies and the ancient setting. It's more historically intriguing than outright frightening, but the atmosphere is certainly unique. TikTok

Photography policies can change, but generally, visitors are allowed to take photos inside the crypt. However, it's always best to confirm with your tour guide on the day of your visit. TikTok

St. Michan's Church has a history stretching back over 900 years, with the current building dating from the 17th century. It's known for its unique crypt, which has a naturally dry atmosphere ideal for preserving bodies. TikTok

Yes, guided tours are the primary way to experience the St. Michan's Crypt. Knowledgeable guides share the history and fascinating stories associated with the church and its underground chambers. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The most striking photo opportunities are within the crypt, capturing the ancient mummies and coffins. The church's exterior architecture also offers some interesting shots, especially its historical facade. TikTok

Generally, photography is permitted inside the crypt, allowing visitors to document this unique historical site. Always confirm with your guide on the day of your visit, as policies can be subject to change. TikTok

Given the low light conditions in the crypt, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be beneficial. Using a wider aperture can also help capture detail. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites in Dublin. It's highly unlikely that drone footage would be permitted over St. Michan's Church or its grounds. TikTok

While general photography is usually allowed, flash photography might be prohibited to protect the delicate remains and artifacts. Always respect any signage or instructions from the staff. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Michan's Crypt offers a unique, albeit slightly eerie, educational experience for older children and teenagers interested in history and the unusual. The mummified remains can be fascinating for curious minds, sparking conversations about history and preservation. However, the dark and somewhat unsettling atmosphere of the crypt might not be suitable for very young or sensitive children. TikTok

It's advisable to gauge your child's interest and tolerance for such environments beforehand. The tour guides are usually engaging and can tailor their explanations to be informative without being overly frightening. Remember to check the church's current operating status, as recent damage has led to closures. Reddit+1

👻 For the Curious & Macabre

If you're drawn to the unusual, the historical, and the slightly macabre, St. Michan's Crypt is a must-visit. The opportunity to see naturally mummified bodies is a rare and unforgettable experience that sets this Dublin attraction apart. It's a place that sparks curiosity about life, death, and the passage of time. TikTokReddit

Be prepared for an atmospheric journey into the past. The crypt's unique preservation conditions create an environment that feels almost frozen in time. It's a destination that appeals to those who seek out the unconventional and are eager to explore the stranger corners of history. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, St. Michan's Church and its crypt offer a direct connection to Dublin's medieval and post-Reformation past. The church's long history, combined with the remarkably preserved remains in the crypt, provides a tangible link to centuries gone by. It's a chance to explore historical burial practices and the unique environmental factors that led to natural mummification. TikTokReddit

Understanding the context of the church's location and its role within the city's development adds another layer to the visit. The stories shared by guides can bring the history to life, making it a compelling stop for anyone interested in delving deeper into Dublin's heritage beyond the typical landmarks. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Fascinating Crypt of St. Michan's

The crypt of St. Michan's Church is its most renowned feature, a subterranean chamber that has preserved human remains for centuries. The unique dry atmosphere, created by the peat in the soil and the lack of moisture, has led to natural mummification. Visitors can see the remarkably intact bodies of individuals who lived and died centuries ago, including a famous figure known as 'The Crusader' and a nun. The experience is both macabre and historically significant, offering a tangible link to Dublin's past. TikTokReddit

Exploring the crypt involves descending narrow stairs into a dimly lit space filled with ancient coffins and skeletal remains. Guides often share captivating stories about the individuals interred there, adding a human element to the eerie surroundings. Some visitors report a distinct smell or a feeling of ancient air, prompting recommendations for wearing a dust mask to enhance comfort during the tour. Reddit

It's crucial to note that the crypt's accessibility and operating hours have been subject to change, particularly following recent incidents of fire and water damage. Always verify the current status of tours and access directly with St. Michan's Church before planning your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit+1

A Glimpse into Dublin's History

St. Michan's Church itself is a testament to Dublin's long and layered history, with origins dating back over 900 years. The current structure, however, was largely rebuilt in the 17th century after periods of destruction and reconstruction. As a Church of Ireland parish, it has witnessed centuries of the city's social, religious, and political transformations. Its location near the River Liffey places it in a historically significant part of Dublin, close to old city walls and trade routes. TikTok

The church's enduring presence makes it a valuable site for understanding Dublin's medieval and post-Reformation past. The preservation of its crypt, in particular, offers a rare and somewhat unsettling window into historical burial practices and the effects of natural preservation. For history enthusiasts, St. Michan's provides a unique opportunity to connect with the tangible remnants of bygone eras, far removed from typical tourist attractions. Reddit

While the crypt is the main draw for many, the church's architecture and its role as an active place of worship also contribute to its historical significance. It stands as a quiet sentinel in a bustling city, inviting visitors to step back in time and contemplate the lives of those who came before. TikTok

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