Monasteranenagh Abbey facts for kids
| Mainistir an Aonaigh | |
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 Location in Ireland
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| Monastery information | |
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| Other names | Monaster-an-Aonagh; Eanach; Monaster-na-maighe; Maigue; Maio; Manister; Nenagh; Nenay |
| Order | Cistercians |
| Established | 1148 |
| Disestablished | 1580 |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | Toirdelbhach mac Diarmaida Ó Briain |
| Architecture | |
| Status | ruined |
| Style | Norman |
| Site | |
| Location | Monaster South, Dooradoyle, County Limerick |
| Coordinates | 52°31′01″N 8°39′46″W / 52.516850°N 8.662752°W |
| Public access | yes |
| Official name | Monasteranenagh Abbey Abbey (Cistercian) |
| Reference no. | 171 |
Monasteranenagh Abbey is an old monastery in County Limerick, Ireland. It is also a National Monument, which means it's a protected historical site.
Contents
Where is Monasteranenagh Abbey?
Monasteranenagh Abbey is found about 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles) east of Croom. It sits on the north bank of the River Camogue.
The History of Monasteranenagh Abbey
How the Abbey Started
This monastery was built in 1148. It was founded by Toirdelbhach mac Diarmaida Ó Briain for the Cistercian monks. These monks came from Mellifont Abbey. The name "Monasteranenagh" means "Monastery of the Fair." This likely refers to a market or gathering place nearby.
The main buildings were probably finished by Domnall Mór Ua Briain. This happened in the late 1100s.
Changes and Challenges
In 1228, the monks made the abbey stronger. They did this to stop a visit from a church leader named Stephen of Lexington. This shows they wanted to keep their independence.
The Abbey's End
The monastery was closed down in 1540. This was part of a big event called the Dissolution of the monasteries. During this time, the government took control of many religious buildings. In 1543, the abbey was given to Sir Osborne Echingham. Even after it was closed, some monks still lived there for a while.
A Battle at the Abbey
A sad event happened at the abbey on April 3, 1580. This was during the Second Desmond Rebellion. English soldiers, led by Sir Nicholas Malby, fought against Irish forces. Some Irish soldiers tried to hide in the abbey. The English army used cannons against the abbey. Parts of the building, like the cloister and refectory, were badly damaged. Many of the monks who were still living there were killed.
What Happened to the Buildings?
Over time, parts of the abbey fell apart. The tower collapsed in 1806 or 1807. This tower might have been part of the church or a house built later. The presbytery, which is the area around the altar, had a special arched roof. This roof fell in 1874. The inside of the abbey was used as a burial ground until the 1970s.
What Remains of the Abbey?
Today, you can still see parts of the old church. This church was built between 1170 and 1220. Above the remains of the west entrance, there are two round-topped windows. The east wall has three tall, narrow windows called lancet windows.
You can also see parts of an early Gothic chapter house. This was a building where the monks met. The walls, gables, and the main window frame of the church are still standing.
