There are a number of worthy books dealing specifically with church architecture in Ireland. However, there is no single volume telling the story of the churches and cathedrals of the Church of Ireland, and the aim of this book is to fill that gap. In 2000 there were approximately 1100 churches still open for worship (650 in the Republic and 450 in Northern Ireland).
These range from the medieval cathedrals and ancient parish churches in the care of the Church of Ireland since the Reformation to the medley of new churches built in eastern Ulster during the second half of the twentieth century. Except for the medieval period it is not possible to include them all, but a brief description of those chosen is possible, and as a result the large cathedrals receive more or less the same space as an interesting but little-known country church. The former are, in any event, already well documented.
The book is lavishly illustrated with colour photographs.