Grace Dieu Abbey facts for kids
The Grace Dieu Abbey was an old abbey in County Dublin, Ireland. It was founded around 1190 by John Comyn, who was the Archbishop of Dublin at the time. He wanted to create a home for a group of nuns called the Sisters of St. Augustine. These nuns followed the rules of Saint Augustine.
The abbey earned most of its money from lands in places like Lusk and Swords, County Dublin. Over many years, it became a safe place for the unmarried daughters of wealthy Anglo-Irish families who lived in an area called the Pale.
The Abbey's End
During a time known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1500s, many religious houses in Ireland were closed down. Even though people asked for Grace Dieu Abbey to stay open, it was closed in 1541.
After it closed, the abbey's lands were given to Patrick Barnewall. He was a very important lawyer in Ireland, known as the Solicitor General.
What Happened to the Buildings?
Patrick's son, Sir Christopher Barnewall, built a large house nearby called Turvey House. People say he used stones from the old Grace Dieu Abbey to build it. Today, only ruins are left of the abbey.
Christopher Barnewall also found a new home for the nuns who had to leave Grace Dieu Abbey. They moved to a place called Portrane.
Sadly, Turvey House itself was torn down in 1987. This decision was made by the Dublin County Council and was very controversial. Many people who cared about old buildings called it a "tragedy."
See also
- List of abbeys and priories in Ireland (County Dublin)
