Press Releases21 May 24

Visit of the President of Italy to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

On Monday morning (20th May), Saint Patrick’s Cathedral was honoured to welcome His Excellency, the President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, for a top–security visit. The President was accompanied by his daughter Laura, de facto First Lady, along with a distinguished delegation including the Italian Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Ruggero Corrias, the Irish Ambassador to Italy, H.E. Patricia O’Brien, the Chief of Protocol from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Paul Kavanagh, and other officials.

The Dean & Ordinary of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Dr. William Morton, warmly received President Mattarella, greeting him in Italian. Dr. Morton then introduced the President to Mr. Louis Parminter, Cathedral Manager and Dean’s Verger, and Mr. Gavan Woods, CEO and Administrator. Mr. Parminter led the President and his delegation on a comprehensive guided tour, highlighting significant aspects of the Cathedral’s history. Key points included the benevolence of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness in the 19th–century restoration, the development of the musical and choral tradition, the establishment of the Choir School, and the use of the Lady Chapel for worship by the Huguenots for 160 years. The tour culminated with a reference to Dean Jonathan Swift and his famous self–composed epitaph.

Following the tour, President Mattarella signed the official Visitors’ Book. Through an interpreter, he expressed his admiration for the Cathedral, describing it as “enthralling” and “absolutely fascinating.” The President was particularly impressed by the Cathedral’s rich historical development, reflecting the course of Irish history. He expressed a wish that he had more time “to stand in front of every memorial, learn about its history, and absorb the wonderful ambience of such a magnificent cathedral.”

Dean Morton welcomed the President’s visit as a highly positive and significant event, emphasising that Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is a prominent landmark on the religious, historical, cultural, and artistic trail in Dublin and beyond. He was delighted that President Mattarella and his delegation enjoyed their visit, underscoring the Cathedral’s importance as a site of immense historical and cultural value.