St Michan's Church of Ireland

St. Mizan Church is an old church in Dublin. It was first built at the end of the 11th century. The existing church was built in 1686. The history of churches is quite interesting. The church was first built in 1905 by the Vikings who stayed in Ireland. Later, the church was rebuilt in the 17th century. In 1724, a huge organ was installed in the church. It is said that Handel's famous "Messiah" played here for the first time. But the most fascinating part of the church is the dozens of mummies in the basement. Initially, the mummies were stored in wooden coffins, but over time, the coffins gradually decayed and the air-dried bodies inside were exposed. Six of the coffin lids were completely decayed, so the mummies inside were completely exposed to people's eyes. Now two of them are open for public viewing. One of the most notable coffins in the basement is a separate coffin, whose owner is known as the Crusader. This "Crusader" is very tall, hands slightly up from the coffin, visitors can shake hands with this 800-year-old mummy, and you can touch it today.

It is worthwhile to see that there is nothing in the daytime. After entering, it feels ordinary, solemn church, very beautiful and storytelling place.

Wow! Just incredible. Where else will you have the chance to see 800 year-old mummies perfectly preserved in a crypt? The church is nice as well, less elaborate than something like St. Patrick's, but worth taking a peek inside. Had a wonderful tour guide and really nice staff. Tickets are not too expensive and there is a student discount!

There are mummies down in the crypt of the church that are well worth the visit. One is a crusader and they let you shake his hand. One of the most unique experience's I've ever had. It's an amazing off the beaten path find.

The current St. Michan's is located on the site of a medieval church and while the current place of worship is rather ordinary, the real treasure is through the small doors on the sides. Below the current church are limestone crypts that can be seen through guided tours. While it's illegal to open the caskets of the deceased, a few were exposed by accident and are now on display, each with their own story. The oldest is believed to be the 800 year old remains of a crusader whose hand a visitor is supposed to "shake" (rub gently). I have heard some say that this is a retired practice because one of his index fingers is missing, believed to have been broke off by an overzealous shaker, however on my tour (first of the day on a weekday) there were only three of us, an older couple and myself, and we were allowed to do it if we cared to. So this might be at the discretion of the tour guide depending on the nature of the guests.