More than 400 years ago, in 1624, a major event took place in Sligo Abbey — the installation of the O’Connor Monument at the east end of the south wall inside the Abbey church.

The monument, overlooking the 15th Century high altar, commemorates three people: the Gaelic chieftain Sir Donogh O’Connor, his wife Lady Eleanor Butler, Countess of Desmond, and a daughter of Eleanor’s from her previous marriage to Garret Fitzgerald, Earl of Desmond.

The monument is, arguably, the most ornate carved-stone feature in Sligo Abbey’s 13th and 15th century ruins.

Now, a new book on the monument, entitled ‘A Wall That Speaks’ will be launched in the Abbey at the beginning of this year’s National Heritage Week, on August 15.
There is an open invitation to all to the launch. . . everyone is welcome to attend the event during which the author will sign copies of the book, and refreshments will also be served.