Arsonist jailed as Dublin church crypt remains sealed off
The crypt in the Anglican church in Dublin, Ireland, remains closed after the destruction of mummified bodies due to arson. One of the damaged bodies is the "Crusader," who died approximately 800 years ago. The perpetrator, 39-year-old Cristian Topiter, was sentenced to six years in prison for the 2024 arson, which the church described as an "act of desecration."
More than nine months after the attack, the crypt is still inaccessible to tourists. The main gates of St. Michan's church are closed, and the entrance to the crypt is secured with steel doors. Archdeacon David Pierpoint emphasizes that as a parish, they are caretakers of the entire church, including what lies underground.
The damage is severe. The "Crusader" has a charred body, is missing one leg, and his spine and arms are damaged. Another mummified body, buried approximately 400 years ago, was also destroyed. The church closure has led to a decrease in parish income, as it cannot welcome tourists.
Hopes for reopening
Archdeacon Pierpoint expresses hope that the crypt will be opened once they receive permission to re-bury the remains. Opening the crypt is crucial for the financial support of the church and to allow tourists to visit this unique place.
St. Michan's church, whose current building dates back to the 17th century, has been the target of several attacks in recent years. In 2019, vandals damaged the "Crusader," cutting off his head, which was later recovered and reattached with the help of the National Museum of Ireland.
Despite restricted access to the grounds, St. Michan's church remains open for services every Sunday. The first church on this site was established in 1095, and the current building was renovated in 1998. The crypts also hold the remains of influential Dublin families from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
