Dunmore Abbey facts for kids
| Mainistir Dhún Mór | |
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 Location in Ireland
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| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Donmore Mac Oryshe; Downemore; Dominensis |
| Order | Augustinians |
| Established | c. 1423 |
| Disestablished | 18th century |
| Diocese | Clonfert |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | Walter de Bermingham |
| Architecture | |
| Status | Inactive |
| Style | Late Gothic |
| Site | |
| Location | Abbeyland North, Dunmore, County Galway |
| Coordinates | 53°37′14″N 8°44′30″W / 53.620458°N 8.741628°W |
| Public access | yes |
| Official name | Dunmore Abbey Friary (Augustinian) |
| Reference no. | 273 |
Dunmore Abbey is an old Augustinian friary located in County Galway, Ireland. A friary is a type of monastery where friars live and work. It is also a special National Monument, which means it's a protected historical site.
Contents
Where is Dunmore Abbey?
Dunmore Abbey is found in the northern part of Dunmore, County Galway. This area is in the west of Ireland.
The Story of Dunmore Abbey
Dunmore was a very old religious site, possibly started by Saint Patrick way back in the 5th century.
Founding the Friary
The friary we see today was built for the Augustinian friars. It was founded by Walter de Bermingham, who was a powerful local leader, around the year 1423. The friars were a group of religious men who lived together and dedicated their lives to God.
Changes Over Time
In 1569, Dunmore Abbey was officially closed down. This was part of a big change across Ireland and England where many monasteries were closed. However, the friars at Dunmore Abbey managed to stay living there.
After a period called the Reformation, part of the friary buildings were changed. They became a local church for the Church of Ireland.
In 1574, the land where the abbey stood was owned by a person named John Fitz-Thomas Burke.
Life at the Abbey
Even in 1641, there were still many friars living at Dunmore Abbey. Records show there was a prior (the head of the friary) and thirty friars.
However, the friars had to leave in 1645. They found safety in a place called Mayfield.
In 1698, a detailed list was made of everything that was left at the abbey.
What Dunmore Abbey Looks Like
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The abbey has a beautiful and detailed doorway on its west side. This doorway was built in the 15th century and shows the amazing craftsmanship of that time.
