Castlelyons Carmelite Priory

A Priory that began under the patronage of one of Cork's most wealthy families

Unguided sites

Mohera, Mallow
Cork

Castlelyons Carmelite Priory

A Priory that began under the patronage of one of Cork's most wealthy families

Unguided sites

Mohera, Mallow
Cork

Facilities

Car park

Notice

Castlelyons Carmelite Priory is a National Monument in state guardianship

*Limited car-parking available

WARNING: It should be noted that these sites are unguided and a level of care and caution should be maintained during all stages of your visit. The Office Of Public Works (OPW) will not be held responsible for any damages, injuries, or losses that occur

Castlelyons Carmelite Priory

The Priory at Castlelyons was founded in the early 1300s by John de Barry, upon receiving the right to issue a plot of land to the Carmelite friars by King Edward II.

The de Barry’s were a wealthy and influential family, particularly in County Cork. John de Barry himself was a knight, and his family had a history of founding friaries within the county: his great grandfather David I founded Buttevant Franciscan Friary in 1251, and it is said that his brother William helped found Timoleague Franciscan Friary.

While the Priory began under the patronage of the de Barry family, after the Reformation Castlelyons was given to Richard Boyle, who was the first Earl of Cork, who granted it to his daughter Alice.

By the 18^th century Castlelyons was the site of a hedge school.

Though it dates back to the early 1300s, the current ruins date to the 15^th century, and conservation work took place on the site in the 1930s by the OPW.

Visit Historic Environment Viewer and Monastic Ireland for more information on Castlelyons

Protect our Past - Click here to read about the importance of protecting our country’s unique heritage sites

This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014