Monasteries and Abbeys
Ireland’s unique Christian heritage has left its impact across the landscape. From the remote beehive huts of the early Christian hermit tradition to the oratories and high crosses of the communal monasteries through to the soaring architectural advances and exquisite sculpture of the Contintental orders these remains bear witness to the spiritual legacy of their founders.
Just as in times gone by these sites fill many roles. For the art and architecture enthusiast the sites inspire, for students they are places of learning and discovery, for those looking for calm they offer a space for quiet contemplation.
Become alive to the echoes of ancient prayer among the ruins of these fabled places.
Ardfert Cathedral
A trio of medieval churches devoted to St Brendan
Boyle Abbey
Step back into Ireland’s monastic past
Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
A spectacular monastery on the banks of the river Shannon
Ennis Friary
Admire some exquisite Renaissance carvings
Glendalough Monastic Site and Visitor Centre
A valley of sanctuary for saints and scholars
Jerpoint Abbey
Where Irish medieval sculpture reached new heights
Kells Priory
Visit Ireland’s largest enclosed ecclesiastical site
Old Mellifont Abbey Monastic Site
Visit Ireland’s very first Cistercian foundation
Scattery Island and Visitor Centre
Discover the History, Myth and Legend of Scattery Island
Sceilg Mhichíl UNESCO World Heritage Property
An island monastery towering over the sea
Sligo Abbey
Where friars’ prayers echo among the ruins
St. Mary’s Church Gowran
Records written in stone in the heart of Gowran
The Rock of Cashel
The high king of Irish monuments
Tintern Abbey
Where monks toiled and legacies were created