The first church on the site was built in the 11th century. This was replaced in 1210 by a Gothic Cathedral. In the 18th century, the city corporation recommended that the bishop erect a new building.
Designed by local architect John Roberts, this is one of the architectural gems of Waterford. In 1773 the old Norman Gothic Cathedral was demolished after pressure was brought on the local bishop by the City Corporation. The old cathedral was so strongly was it built that gunpowder had to be used in its demolition. The present Cathedral was begun in 1773 and was completed in 1779 at a total cost of £5,397. The exterior is notable for its wonderful tower and spire with its classical detailing. The cathedral has a fine Georgian galleried interior.
The ceiling was restored in 1815-1818 in a new design after the cathedral was badly damaged by a fire on October 25th, 1815. The spire is from 1880. The interior was remodelled in 1885-1891 under the direction of Sir Thomas Drew.