Ardfert Cathedral facts for kids
The Ardfert Cathedral (which means "Ard Fhearta Cathedral" in Irish) is an old, ruined church building in Ardfert, County Kerry, Ireland. It's a special place dedicated to Saint Brendan, a famous Irish saint. For many years, starting in 1117, it was the main church for the Diocese of Ardfert, which is like a church district. Today, it's a popular place for people to visit and learn about history.
History of Ardfert Cathedral
Ardfert was once home to an early Christian monastery. People believe Saint Brendan started this monastery way back in the 6th century.
In 1111, a big church meeting decided that the main church for the area should be at Ratass Church. But by 1117, this important church was moved to Ardfert. Later, the church district was called "Ardfert and Aghadoe". We don't know if Aghadoe ever had its own separate main church.
What You Can See Today
The site has three old church ruins from the Middle Ages. The main and oldest building was built in the 12th century.
In the nearby graveyard, there are two other churches:
- Temple Na Hoe is also from the 12th century.
- Temple Na Griffin was built in the 15th century.
The main church has an ogham stone. This is a very old stone with special carvings that look like lines and notches. It also has many old grave slabs from early Christian times and the Middle Ages.
In the 15th century, a small side section called a transept was added. Also, battlements were built, which are like the top parts of castle walls.
Changes Over Time
During a time of big religious change in Ireland, the main church became Protestant. The cathedral's roof was destroyed during a conflict in 1641.
However, part of the church was fixed up later in the 17th century. The south transept got a new roof and was made bigger. From 1663, the church district of Ardfert joined with the Limerick district. Ardfert Cathedral then became a regular local church.
In 1871, a new Church of Ireland church opened nearby. Because of this, the Ardfert Cathedral's roof was taken off again. After 1871, many old church sites like Ardfert Cathedral were given to the government. Today, part of the transept has been repaired. It now holds the entrance and a gift shop for visitors.
See also
In Spanish: Catedral de Ardfert para niños
- Heritage sites (Republic of Ireland)
- Dean of Ardfert List of deans of Ardfert
