The Church of Ireland St Columb's Cathderal stands within the walls of the old city of Derry, and was named after St Columcille, whose monastery was the original foundation on which Derry was built.

St Columb's was constructed between 1628-33 in an archaic style known as Planter's Gothic, and was the first Protestant cathedral built in Britain or Ireland after the Reformation. The cathedral was used as a fortified defence during the Siege of Derry in 1688-89, and a hollowed out cannonball which carried a message of the besieging army's proposed terms of surrender (which were rejected) is displayed in the vestibule.

The tower, which was used as a lookout post during the siege, has terrific views over the old city. The cathedral's spire has twice been replaced, and its interiors were extensively remodelled in the 19th century. The dark hand-carved oak pews create an austere effect, while the stained glass windows depict scenes from the siege. Also on display is the exquisite 18th century carved mahogany bishop's throne. In the chapter house museum are more relics from the siege, including the original locks and keys of the four main city gates.

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