Wooden models believed to have secured win to build Cork's St Fin Barre’s Cathedral go on display

The design models were brought to Cork by renowned English architect William Burges

The Dean’s Vicar, Rev Martin Steele, views one of the original wooden models crafted by architect William Burges. These historic models, which were crucial in securing the commission to design St Fin Barre’s Cathedral in 1862, are currently on display. Picture: Dan Linehan

Intricate wooden models which it’s believed helped win the design competition for Cork’s landmark St Fin Barre’s Cathedral 163 years ago have been restored for public display for the first time.

The models were brought to Cork by renowned English architect William Burges to help him compete in the prestigious 1862 international architectural competition to design and build a new cathedral to replace the existing cathedral which many felt was plain and featureless.