Askeaton Abbey facts for kids
| Mainistir Eas Géitine | |
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 Location in Ireland
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| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Athskettin; Easa-geibhteine; Es-geibhteine; Inis-geibhthine; Easa-gebryny; Inisgebryny? |
| Order | Order of Friars Minor Conventual Order of Friars Minor |
| Established | 1389–1420 |
| Disestablished | 1714 |
| Diocese | Limerick |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | Gerald FitzGerald, 3rd Earl of Desmond |
| Architecture | |
| Status | Inactive |
| Site | |
| Location | Moig South, Askeaton, County Limerick |
| Coordinates | 52°36′14″N 8°58′31″W / 52.603813°N 8.975413°W |
| Visible remains | church, north transept, sacristy, cloister arcade, domestic buildings |
| Public access | Yes |
| Official name | Askeaton Abbey |
| Reference no. | 185 |
Askeaton Abbey, also known as Askeaton Friary, is an old Franciscan monastery in County Limerick, Ireland. Today, it's a special place called a National Monument, which means it's protected because of its history and importance.
Contents
Where is Askeaton Abbey?
Askeaton Abbey is found in the northern part of Askeaton town. It sits right on the east side of the River Deel.
A Look Back: The Abbey's History
Askeaton Abbey was built a long time ago, between 1389 and 1420. It was founded for a group of friars called the Order of Friars Minor Conventual. Friars are like monks, but they often live among people and do good works.
- Some records say Gerald FitzGerald, 3rd Earl of Desmond started it between 1389 and 1400.
- Others suggest James FitzGerald, 6th Earl of Desmond founded it in 1420.
Changes Over Time
The abbey saw many changes through the centuries:
- In 1490, it was changed to follow a different branch of the Franciscans, the Order of Friars Minor.
- It was changed again in 1513.
- In 1564, an important meeting for the friars, called a provincial chapter, was held there.
Times of Trouble
The abbey faced tough times:
- In 1579, during a conflict called the Second Desmond Rebellion, soldiers attacked Askeaton. The abbey was robbed and left empty, and some friars were killed.
- It was brought back to life in 1627, but then abandoned again in 1648 when Oliver Cromwell's army got close.
- The friars returned in 1658 and lived there until 1714, when the abbey was finally closed for good.
What's Left Today?
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Even though it's very old, many parts of Askeaton Abbey still stand. You can see the church, a side wing called the north transept, and the sacristy (a room where sacred items were kept).
One of the most interesting parts is the cloister arcade. This is a covered walkway that usually surrounds a central courtyard. At Askeaton, the cloister has cool carvings, including one of Francis of Assisi (who started the Franciscan order) showing his stigmata (marks like those of Christ).
Other things to look for include:
- A Mass dial, which was like an ancient clock used to tell time for church services.
- Sedilia, which are special seats for priests during services.
- Several tombs belonging to the powerful Fitzgerald dynasty.
- A carving of Christ known as the Man of Sorrows.
Images for kids
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Viewed from the north
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The beautiful cloister area.
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Another view of the cloister.
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The ruins of the church.
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A statue of St Francis, which some people believed could cure toothache.
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A window with detailed stone patterns called tracery.
