Cong Augustinian Abbey and Monks Fishing House

Located near the River Cong, in the grounds of Ashford Castle, lie the remains of an Augustinian Abbey. Founded in the 12^th century by Turlough O’Connor, King of Connaught, Cong Abbey is sitting on the site of an earlier monastery that was founded in the 7^th century by St. Feichin.

The church is said to have burned down in 1114 and 1137. After the Dissolution of Monasteries in the 1530s the Abbey changed hands three times: first passed to the Binghams, then to the O’Donnell’s, and finally the Brownes. Different construction periods are evident on what remains today; the north and south walls and east gable of the church, and the north-east part of the cloister are all original, while the rest is mostly modern reconstruction.

It is said that Rory O’Connor, the last High King of Ireland, spent his remaining days at the Abbey.

About 90m west of the Abbey is a beautifully situated little stone building, known as the Monks Fishing House. Sitting on the Cong River, it has a small narrow opening in the floor to allow for fishing to take place, and the outlines of a fireplace in the west gable wall.

This now roofless structure was likely the oasis for the Monks of the Abbey.

Visit Historic Environment Viewer for more information on Cong Abbey & Monks Fishing House

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