**Update 14/11/2018**

The heart of Saint Laurence O'Toole is now back on display in Dublin's Christchurch Cathedral after a few years of travels.

**Update 26/04/2018**

Today it was announced that the relic of Saint Laurence O'Toole had been found and returned to Christchurch Cathedral in Dublin after six years.

The relic has been a focal point for pilgrimage since the twelfth century. St. Laurence O'Toole was born in Castledermot, Co. Kilkenny and became Abbot of Glendalough, then Archbishop of Dublin. He was the first Irishman to be elected Archbishop in what was a Viking or Danish city and was very popular among the city's population.

He was a skilled negotiator and succeeded many times in brokering agreements between the Irish, the Anglo-Normans and the King of England, Henry II.

Laurence O'Toole died at Eu in Normandy while travelling to Rome in 1180AD. The church there is one of the busiest pilgrimage sites in France.

Only his heart was returned to Ireland, where it was placed in Christchurch Cathedral and for over 800 years it has been attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

Gardaí believe that the thief may have hid in the cathedral overnight as there was no sign of a break-in. Any information regarding the theft can be passed on to Gardaí at 01- 6669400.

Even if not religious, one can still appreciate that this loss is a major blow for tourism and culture in Dublin.