Aghalurcher Monastery facts for kids
Aghalurcher Church Yard
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| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Established | 6th-early 7th century? |
| Disestablished | c. 1484 |
| Diocese | Diocese of Clogher RC, Diocese of Clogher CI |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | St. Ronan, son of Aedh Dubh |
| Site | |
| Location | Lough Erne, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh |
Aghalurcher (which means "Field of the Cast" in Irish) is a very old monastery site in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. It's located near the beautiful Lough Erne. People believe it was started by a saint named Ronan a very long time ago, possibly in the 6th or early 7th century.
Today, you can visit the ruins of a medieval church at Aghalurcher. This church was updated in 1447, including a new roof. The site also has some interesting old gravestones from the late 1700s. There's even an ancient carved head on the gateway! More old carvings from this place are kept safe at the Fermanagh County Museum in Enniskillen Castle.
Discovering Aghalurcher's Past
Aghalurcher was a very important religious place before the Normans arrived in Ireland. It was a center for learning and worship.
Who Founded Aghalurcher?
The monastery is said to have been founded by Saint Ronan, who was the son of Aedh Dubh. He lived around the 6th or early 7th century. The monastery was officially dedicated to him in the 9th century. Another saint, Saint Felim (also known as Saint Feidhlimidh), is also connected to Aghalurcher.
What Can You See at the Site?
When you visit Aghalurcher, you'll find the remains of the old church. There's a small, locked vault where special carved pieces are stored. The gateway to the site is also interesting because it was built using stones from the original church. It's like a puzzle made from history!
