Staycation in the soulful Midlands, Ireland’s spiritual centre

As spiritual tourism grows in popularity worldwide, Domhnall O’Donoghue celebrates some of the Midlands’ major religious structures and sites
Staycation in the soulful Midlands, Ireland’s spiritual centre

Fore Abbey, Co Westmeath. Photo: Chris Hill, (c) Fáilte Ireland and Westmeath County Council

Tue, 03 Mar, 2026 - 15:26
Domhnall O'Donoghue

My years as a young altar boy sparked a lifelong passion for religious buildings. Nothing excited me more than visiting my grandparents in Longford town because their home sat opposite the cathedral. Dedicated to Saint Mel, a nephew and companion of Saint Patrick, I felt it was one of the most impressive in the country, thanks to its limestone portico, frieze and 200-foot-high bell tower.

St Mel's Cathedral, Longford, where the newer stained-glass windows, designed by the Dominican priest Kim En Joong, beautifully complement the two masterpieces designed by Harry Clarke. Photo: Fáilte Ireland and Longford County Council
St Mel's Cathedral, Longford, where the newer stained-glass windows, designed by the Dominican priest Kim En Joong, beautifully complement the two masterpieces designed by Harry Clarke. Photo: Fáilte Ireland and Longford County Council

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