Callan Augustinian Friary facts for kids
The Callan Augustinian Friary is an old Augustinian monastery in Callan, Ireland. It's often called the "Abbey Meadow" by local people. You can find it on the north-east side of the town, right by the Kings River. A newer Augustinian building in Callan is also connected to this historic site.
Contents
History of the Friary
How the Friary Started
The story of the friary began in 1461. A man named Edmund Butler of Pottlerath asked Pope Pius II for permission to build this monastery. Edmund was known for supporting writers and books.
Sadly, Edmund died in 1462. His son, James, then took over the project. The actual buildings were likely put up after 1467. James got special permission from the Pope to marry the woman he was with, as they were related.
Changes Over Time
In 1472, the friary became "observant." This means the monks decided to follow their strict rules even more closely. This was a popular movement across Europe at the time. By 1479, the Callan friary became a main center for this strict way of life in Ireland.
The Friary Closes
Later, the friary was closed down. This happened when Henry VIII, the King of England, ordered many monasteries to be shut. Their lands were taken by the king. The Callan Friary then became the property of the Earls of Ormonde.
Much later, in 1766, a new monastery for the Augustinian friars was built in Callan town.
What Remains Today
The friary church is a long, rectangular building. It has a bell-tower right in the middle. The east end of the church, called the choir, gets light from a beautiful east window. On its south wall, you can see one of Ireland's best examples of a sedilia. A sedilia is a special seat for priests during church services.
The other buildings, like the living areas and the cloister court (an open space surrounded by covered walkways), are no longer there. But a freshwater well still remains on the abbey grounds.
