There's a secret lurking beneath the streets of Dublin, and it's not what you'd expect. Tucked away under St. Michan’s Church, down a flight of shadowy, stone steps, you'll find a cryptic surprise: a collection of ancient mummies, including one who's ever-ready for a handshake. Now, you might wonder how these mummified dwellers, tucked away in a church basement, became an offbeat tourist spot. Well, thanks to a peculiar loophole in church regulations, these silent figures are available for the public's curious eyes.
But let's rewind a bit. St. Michan's Church isn't just your regular historical landmark. Founded in 1095, this place was a sanctuary for the remaining Vikings in Ireland. You see, back in 1014, a chap named Wolf the Quarrelsome, along with other Irish forces, had a bit of a tiff with the Vikings, leading to many being shown the medieval version of an exit door. The church itself got a makeover in 1686 and then got a musical upgrade in 1724 with a grand pipe organ. Legend whispers that Handel himself tickled the ivories of this organ, debuting the Messiah.
However, through all the renovations and historical footnotes, the crypt below remained untouched, a constant in a world of change. It became an accidental time capsule, preserving its residents in a state of eerily perfect mummification. Visiting this crypt is like stepping into a page of history - a little macabre, sure, but undeniably captivating.
So, if you find yourself wandering the streets of Dublin, craving a dash of unconventional history, descend into the crypt of St. Michan’s Church. Just a heads up: don’t be startled if one of the mummies extends a greeting. It's all part of the charm!
Mysterious Mummies of St. Michan's Church: Meet Them?
The church is open for visitors on Tuesdays and Thursdays with limited hours. Calling before attempting to visit is recommended. +353 1 872 4154
