Image one: Entrance of Christchurch, South Main Street, Cork
Christchurch, located in the heart of Cork City centre is said to be one of the first churches built in the city. Constructed in 1726, with its symmetrical façade, its tall windows, triangular shaped roof and decorative pillars at the main entrance, it is quite clear from image one that it is an 18th century neoclassical Georgian building (image one). Between the 18th and 20th century Christchurch was used daily by Corks Church of Ireland parishioners before being taken over by Cork City Council in 1978. This in itself reflects a political and cultural shift in the ways in which public space was being used at that time. New ways of thinking about the city led to refurbishment of the building in 2004. This was also due to the growth of the metropolis and the changing population inhabiting Cork City as it modernised to keep up with the rest of Europe.
Image two: Interior of Christchurch
Restoration of the inside stayed true to its original form (image two) which meant this new modern space was constructed keeping the history of the building to the forefront. Today it is used for concerts, art exhibitions, fashion shows, movie screenings and sometimes even weddings. Like the public gardens, boulevards and main squares of cities of the past this building is another place in the city where the public can be managed, controlled and educated in captivating ways.
Image 3: Altar showing pulpit and stained glass of original church
Image 4: Seats from coffee shop outside entrance
Christchurch is a prime example of modernity, unique to this city. The altar (image 3) along with its stained glass and original pulpit still remain and – having been a spectator at many of its concerts – they without doubt act as the breath-taking backdrop to shows that take place here. As can be seen in image 4, Christchurch is also home to a coffee shop, reflecting the sophisticated type of people using this new space and also that this building is indeed a signature of modernity.
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