The Museum of the Moon at St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny

In the heart of Kilkenny, Ireland, the historic St. Canice's Cathedral will become the stunning backdrop for an awe-inspiring art installation that blends science, history, and artistry into a single celestial experience. The Museum of the Moon will make its way to this ancient site on March 10th 2025, drawing attention not only for its visual spectacle but also for the unique context it brings to this centuries-old cathedral.

A Journey to the Moon in Kilkenny

Image by James Billings

The Museum of the Moon is a traveling art installation created by UK artist Luke Jerram. Measuring seven meters (23 feet) in diameter, the installation is a detailed and scientifically accurate replica of the Moon, its surface meticulously mapped from NASA imagery. The giant moon, illuminated from within, has been displayed in various locations around the world, from museums and art galleries to outdoor festivals. But its temporary home at St. Canice's Cathedral will bring with it a particularly poignant connection to the cathedral’s 12th-century history.

St. Canice's Cathedral, one of Kilkenny's most iconic landmarks, has stood for over 800 years, witnessing countless generations and serving as a place of worship, community, and reflection. The juxtaposition of the ancient cathedral with Jerram's modern, yet timeless, moon installation will create a captivating contrast between the old and the new, inviting visitors to experience both the history of humanity’s connection to the cosmos and the spirituality of the cathedral. From the 10th of March, for 3 weeks, entry to view the museum of the moon is included in your admission ticket to the Cathedral!

Art Meets Science

The cathedral’s towering architecture and historic stained-glass windows will frame the Moon in a striking way, emphasising the connection between the heavens and the Earth. This fusion of ancient sacred space and modern scientific art serves as a reminder of how human beings have always looked to the skies for inspiration, wonder, and understanding.

Events under the Moon

During its stay at St. Canice’s Cathedral, the Museum of the Moon has inspired numerous events, including musical performances, guided tours, and educational talks. These events encouraged visitors to deepen their understanding of the Moon’s scientific significance, its role in human history, and its spiritual symbolism. It’s an exhibition that appeals to a broad audience, from those with a keen interest in astronomy to those simply seeking a moment of serenity and wonder. Events include

The Nine Moons of Ago- 11th, 18th and 25th of March

A special theatrical experience for three nights only this March. Set in an ancient village populated by field fairies, werewolves of Ossary and their Divine King, villagers turn the celtic wheel as the Holly King and Oak Queen battle for power in a unique theatrical experience where darkness is illuminated by the light. Find out more here.

Sharon Shannon- 14th of March

Part of Kilkenny Trad Fest, witness a Sharon Shannon show like no other as she performs under the spectacular Museum of the Moon at St.Canice’s Cathedral. Find out more here.

Moon Mischief- 20th and 29th of March

Join children's writer Niamh Donnellan in a fantastical journey to the moon and back. From aliens to robots, jumping cows to stinky cheese the moon is a busy place if you just use your imagination! Tickets for this event are €10 per child, parents/ guardians are free but need to remain in attendance for the event. Find out more here.

White Horse Guitar Club- 21st of March

Set Theatre presents The White Horse Guitar Club in St. Canice’s Cathedral to coincide with the breathtaking touring artwork Museum Of The Moon by UK artist Luke Jerram. Find out more here.

Lisa Hannigan Ensemble- 22nd of March
This event is sold out.

An Enchanting Evening of Music Beneath the Moon- 23rd of March

St Canice’s Cathedral Choir performs under the awe-inspiring Museum of the Moon installation by artist Luke Jerram. Experience the celestial beauty of choral music echoing through the historic cathedral, accompanied by the breathtaking view of the moon—a seven-meter detailed replica that captures the majesty of our lunar neighbour. Find out more here.

Play Under the Moon- 24th of March

Join us for a sensory play event at St. Canice’s Cathedral on Monday 24th March. Children will enjoy an all-encompassing sensory experience under Luke Jerram’s art installation Museum of the Moon. Tickets for this event are €10 per child, parents/ guardians are free but need to remain in attendance for the event. Find out more here.

 Piano Recital- David McEntee- 29th of March

A programme of solo piano music inspired by Luke Jerram’s lunar installation, Museum of the Moon, will be held on Saturday, March 29th, at 8pm. This special event marks the closing night of the installation's visit to St Canice’s Cathedral, fittingly coinciding with the New Moon. Find more and get your tickets here.

The Museum of the Moon is more than just a temporary art installation; it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of art in making science accessible and of the ways in which history, religion, and culture intersect. The installation at St. Canice's Cathedral offers a brief but unforgettable experience, sparking imaginations and encouraging people of all ages to look to the stars.

Whether you were simply in Kilkenny for a day or specifically for this exhibition, the Museum of the Moon at St. Canice's Cathedral will be an experience that offers both a visual and emotional journey, one that blended the scientific with the spiritual in the most striking of ways. Plan your visit on our website here.

Keep up to date with all the news and events at St Canice’s Cathedral and sign up to our newsletter here.