St Patrick's Cathedral

Walking through the inner city of Dublin, you should see St Patrick's Cathedral; according to legend, the national saint baptised people here in the 5th century, but it only became a stone cathedral in the 13th century. Surprisingly, the bishop has his seat in another church.

The nave is 91 m long... great if you walk up close! Oliver Cromwell thought the same – and used it as a stable for his horses. What a gentleman... *irony off*.

Inside the temple you will find the grave of writer Jonathan Swift (known for "Gulliver's Travels" and "A Modest Proposal"), alongside his wife's.

Although Ireland is a predominantly Catholic country, the Anglican Church also holds frequent services here. However, according to my experience, it is not that common for young people to be actively religious in ceremonies every week. Pope Francis' visit to Ireland could as well clarify the problematic relationship of many people with the Church.

The community also engages in helping refugees (though calling Jesus a 'refugee' is historically problematic – he did not leave the region of Judaea and Galilee and did not flee from his persecutors!).

In general, I am happy to have met many friendly people during my travels! I hope you will have similar great experiences!

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