Muckross Abbey facts for kids
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Established | 1448 |
| Site | |
| Location | Killarney National Park, County Kerry |
| Country | Ireland |
Muckross Abbey (in Irish: Mainistir Locha Léin and Mainistir Mhucrois) is a very old and important building. You can find it in Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland. It was built in 1448. It started as a home for Franciscan friars. These friars were a type of religious group. Donal McCarthy Mor helped to start it.
This abbey has seen a lot of history. It was damaged and rebuilt many times over the years. The friars who lived there sometimes faced attacks. Today, the abbey does not have a roof. But it is still in good shape. You can use safe stairs to go up to the top floor. A special part of the abbey is its central courtyard. It has a large yew tree in the middle. A beautiful arched walkway, called a cloister, surrounds the courtyard.
History of Muckross Abbey
Muckross Abbey was founded in 1448. It was built for a group of Franciscan friars. These friars were known as Observantine Franciscans. They followed strict rules for their religious life.
Over the centuries, the abbey faced many challenges. It was attacked and damaged several times. But each time, it was rebuilt. This shows how important it was to the people.
Famous Burials
In the 1600s and 1700s, Muckross Abbey became a special burial place. Many famous poets from County Kerry were buried here. These included O'Donoghue, Ó Rathaille, and Ó Súilleabháin. Another important poet, Piaras Feiritéar, is buried in the graveyard just outside the abbey walls.
Exploring the Abbey Today
Today, Muckross Abbey is a popular place to visit. Even without a roof, you can still see its amazing structure. The central courtyard is a highlight. The ancient yew tree there is very old. It has stood in the courtyard for hundreds of years. The vaulted cloister around it is also very impressive. You can imagine the friars walking there long ago.
Gallery
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The Friary
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Abbey and graveyard seen from the west
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Courtyard with cloister and yew tree.
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Refectory
See also
In Spanish: Abadía de Muckross para niños
- Muckross House
- List of abbeys and priories in Ireland (County Kerry)
