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 Cistercian 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 Cistercian Abbey
Where Irish medieval sculpture reached new heights

Kells Priory
Visit Ireland’s largest enclosed ecclesiastical site

Old Mellifont Cistercian Abbey Monastic Site
Visit Ireland’s very first Cistercian foundation

Scattery Island Monastic Site 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 Cistercian Abbey
Where monks toiled and legacies were created

