St. George's Church

St. George's Church stands on Hardwicke Place, just north of Dublin city centre. Designed by Irish architect Francis Johnston, this former parish church is known for its tall spire and Greek Revival details. Look up at the Ionic columns and the Greek inscription on the pediment, which reads “Glory to God in the Highest.” The building later became the Temple Theatre and a nightclub, before restoration and conversion to office space. It is a rewarding stop for anyone interested in Dublin architecture, though access inside is not established.

A Greek Revival church by Francis Johnston

Francis Johnston designed St. George’s Church as a Protestant parish church, built in 1814. Its Ionic columns draw on ancient Greek temple architecture, including the Erechtheion in Athens. The pediment carries a Greek inscription meaning “Glory to God in the Highest.” Greek lettering was also chosen to set the church apart from Roman Catholic churches that used the Latin alphabet.

The church is on Hardwicke Place, just north of the city centre. When it opened, the area was considered part of Drumcondra. Its spire rises 200 feet and became a landmark in Dublin’s north inner city.

From church to office building

After its time as a parish church, the building became the Temple Theatre and later a nightclub. Restoration fundraising efforts followed, including campaigns in 1991, when Dublin was European City of Culture, and through the Millennium Committee. In 2004, a new owner oversaw extensive restoration and renovation to create office facilities.

The building’s changing uses are part of its story, but they also affect how you can visit. It is now office space, and public access to the interior is not established. Plan to appreciate the exterior, especially the spire, columns and inscription, unless a weekday tour or event is available.