In the heart of Dublin city centre, lies an enigmatic piece of gothic architecture of the past – the St.Michan’s Church. Dating back to 1095, the church, constructed over an ancient Viking site, is known for more than its history. Down the narrow, ominous stone steps of the church, are a series of crypts, which have attracted the attention of locals and foreigners alike due to the folklore that’s been passed down generations. It is in these vaults, with the scent of dampness hanging heavily in the air, that you encounter one of the most bizarre phenomena in Dublin – the naturally mummified remains referred to as ‘The Mummies of St.Michan’s Church’. The crypts house the remains of many of Dublin’s most influential 17th, 18th and 19th-century families, including the Sheares brothers who were involved in the 1798 rebellion.
One compelling tale involves the 400-year-old cadaver of a nun, perfectly mummified. This opens a Pandora’s box of ghostly stories – she is said to come alive on the stroke of midnight. Then there’s the notorious ‘Crusader’, an 800-year-old mummy alleged to bring luck to those daring enough to shake his hand. Over the generations, this eerie folklore of the Crusader’s Handshake became an integral part of the storytelling, enticing the most daring of visitors to partake in this spine-chilling ritual.
But that’s not all; mysterious happenings and ghost sightings have been reported more frequently around the left vaults, often fueling the fires of supernatural speculation. While some attribute these tales to an over-active imagination, those who’ve witnessed the mysterious, can’t help but believe in the folklore that’s larger than life. The crypts, the mummies, and their visceral tales create an ambiance of dark intrigue and awe, making it a pilgrimage for those seeking a tryst with the supernatural. So, do you dare shake the Crusader’s hand?