Dome of ‘Pepper Canister’ church in danger of collapse
The dome of one of Dublin’s most famous landmarks, St Stephen’s “Pepper Canister” Church on Mount Street, is in danger of collapse because of a lack of funds to complete its restoration. The church, which was built in 1824, gets its name from its pepper pot-shaped dome. It was the last Georgian church built by the Church of Ireland and is one of the most distinctive historical buildings in the city. More than €330,000 has been spent on the restoration of the building over the past five years, including re-pointing the lime mortar and refurbishment of windows. The church had planned to begin the final stage – the restoration of the front facade and dome – this year. A recent examination of the dome has shown that it has serious structural defects which require immediate attention to prevent its collapse. However, the church said it does not have the €100,000 needed to do the work. The copper dome is supported by eight Portland stone columns. At least two of these columns have become detached from the dome and it is currently being supported by scaffolding.
