The cathedral stands near the centre of Longford Town and has long been a landmark for residents as well as a place of worship. Its scale and position make it part of the county town’s skyline.
The 2009 fire caused devastating damage to the building and much of its interior. The response became a story of conservation and contemporary craftsmanship, as original fabric was repaired and new work commissioned for the restored space.
St Mel’s reopened for Christmas 2014. The restoration is one of the clearest examples in Longford of how a historic building can return to daily use without pretending that nothing happened to it.
A visit is as much about the details as the exterior: notice the meeting of old stonework and modern artistic work, and remember that the building is still used for services.
Check the cathedral’s current visiting arrangements, and be considerate if worship or another event is taking place.
