Culmullen Church Renovation Fund Appeal
If you wish to donate to the Culmullen Church Renovation fund you can:
- Click the link below or scan the QR code to donate instantly.
- Use the Dunshaughlin and Culmullen Offertory Account: IBAN IE94BOFI90343725673543
- Place in an envelope with your name and contact details and drop into the Parish Office in Dunshaughlin
http://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/CulmullenChurchRestorationFund
St. Martin’s Church Culmullen Church Renovation
The parish of Dunshaughlin/Culmullen have started fundraising to carry out necessary renovation and remedial works to the 150-year-old, Culmullen Church. As time goes by, buildings need to be repaired and maintained in order to continue their usageand the time has come when a number of renovations and replacements are required on the church in Culmullen.
A detailed architectural report has identified critical restoration works that need to be carried out immediately to preserve this beautiful iconic building from falling into a state of dereliction and decay.
Restoring and preserving this heritage building for future generations is a tangible way to honour past generations by ensuring that the stories and traditions that it encapsulates continue to be part of the congregation’s legacy.
Phased Works - Updates
The restoration project has commenced.
Restoration Work is progressing well. Pointing of the tower and surrounding area with lime and sand is specialised, meticulous and time consuming. Basically at some point in the past the original plaster was replaced with concrete which over the years has caused problems, this concrete has to be cleared out and replaced with plaster in keeping with the original specifications. When pointing is complete scaffolding will be lowered to the level of the walls so that the work on the roof itself can begin. The beautiful stained glass window depicting the life of St Martin of Tours has been replaced. Please note the new storm glazing on the exterior of the Church. Costs to date including glass restoration are over 100 thousand euro. Thanks to all who have contributed generously to the project.
All the necessary works will be carried out in phases, prioritizing the urgent structural issues first and be completed before the 150-year centenary celebrations in 2028.
St. Martin’s Church
St Martin of Tours Church, Culmullen, was built 1875-1878. It is a Gothic Revival style church, known for its distinct limestone exterior and bell tower and is considered by many visitors to be one of the most beautiful, intimate and picturesque churches in Ireland. While, inside, the natural stone walls and stained-glass windows contribute to its popularity as a wedding venue, it is also integral to the spiritual fabric of the local community where parishioners, for 150 years, have baptized their new born, received the sacraments, married and said goodbye to loved ones.
Structural issues:
While the church is generally in good condition there are current problems with water ingress resulting in leaks, overflows and damp penetration. This is very evident inside the church during heavy rain showers and is causing deterioration of roof timbers over the nave and timber floor structures in the turret.
The root causes of the structural issues need to be addressed urgently, as delaying these essential repairs will result in consequential defects which can escalate rapidly resulting in increased cost liability.
Culmullen Church is listed in The Record of Protected Structures and as such all repairs involve specialized services using traditional techniques and materials that are compatible with the building’s historical fabric.
These works will be carried out in the spring/summerof 2026 by contractors experienced in heritage projects.
Stained Glass Window:
The 1877 manufactured stained-glass windows behind the altar, portray with symbolic imagery the story of St Martin of Tours. These decorative historical windows illuminate the sanctuary but they also reflect the artistic trends and craftsmanship of the era of their manufacture, with parts unique to Culmullen church.
An examination by an expert in stained glass windows has indicated considerable evidence of fatigue which requires restoration of the glass and the supporting framework. This will effectively prevent potential safety hazards associated with aged or damaged windows.
The restoration of these stained-glass windows is not just an investment in glass and lead; it is an investment in the heart and soul of the Culmullen parish church community.
Other urgent Works
There are other areas which will also require urgent remedial attention such as replacing the boilers, upgrading the expensive heating system, repairing the guttering at the cemetery side of the church and providing more sustainable power.