St. Augustine (John’s Lane Church)
It’s officially known as Church of St Augustine & St John the Baptist, but to most Dubliners it’s called John’s Lane Church, and it’s spire is the most recognisable landmark on Thomas Street. In fact, its steeple is the highest steeple in the city, standing at over 200 feet (61.0 m).
Construction of the church started in 1874 and is attributed to the celebrated Victorian architect, Edward Welby Pugin and his Irish partner, George Ashlin. The church interiors are impressive, with stained glass windows by Mayer of Munich and the famous Harry Clarke studio. Its detail and colourful decorative scheme was a signature style of Pugin, who completed over 100 churches across Ireland and the UK.
The church remains in use today and is owned by the Augustinians, who have had a presence in the area since the 12thC. There are regular masses, however the church is generally always open by day and makes the perfect quiet respite from busy Thomas Street.
Address
St Johns Lane Priory 94/95
Thomas Street
Dublin 8
paddyoreilly@augustinians.ie
www.johnslane.ie
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