Whitefriar Street Church is a Carmelite church on Aungier Street in Dublin, known for its shrine containing relics of St. Valentine. The relics were given to Irish Carmelite John Spratt by Pope Gregory XVI in the 19th century. Inside, you can see the Valentine shrine, the statue of Our Lady of Dublin, other shrines and statues, and displays about the saints. Its calm interior also makes room for prayer or quiet reflection. You do not need to be Catholic to appreciate the church’s decoration and history.
The church and the Carmelite order
Whitefriar Street Church is on Aungier Street in Dublin. The church was founded in 1279, then lost its place during the Reformation. The Carmelites re-established it in 1825, and the Order of Carmelites has cared for it since 1974.
The church is known for its association with St. Valentine, but it also has several other shrines and devotional images. Its interior includes colorful mosaics, stained-glass windows, dark wooden confessionals and Stations of the Cross. Take time to look around rather than heading straight to the Valentine shrine.
How St. Valentine’s relics came to Dublin
The church’s relics of St. Valentine were presented to Irish Carmelite John Spratt by Pope Gregory XVI in the 19th century. The gift came during a period when churches around the world received relics from the catacombs in Rome. The remains are kept in a shrine inside the church.
The shrine draws people with different reasons for visiting. Some come to pay their respects to the saint associated with romance; others stop to pray or to see a distinctive part of Dublin’s religious history. The church also holds an annual blessing of the rings on February 14. Couples visit the shrine on that date, so the church is busier than usual.
Other details to look for inside
The original statue of Our Lady of Dublin is another notable object to seek out. Shrines and statues throughout the church are accompanied by information about saints, giving you details to read as you move through the space. Candles are also part of the church’s devotional setting.
You can visit for its religious significance, its decorative details or a moment of quiet. If you wish to attend Mass, check the church’s service schedule before setting out. The church is an active place of worship, so keep your voice low and give people space to pray. A donation can help support its upkeep.
FAQ
Where is Whitefriar Street Church?
It is at 56 Aungier Street, Dublin 2.
Can you see St. Valentine’s relics at the church?
Yes. The church has a shrine containing relics of St. Valentine.
What is special about visiting on February 14?
The church holds a blessing of the rings that day, and people come to visit the St. Valentine shrine.
What else is there to see inside?
Look for the original statue of Our Lady of Dublin, other shrines and statues, and displays about the saints.
