Ullard Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ullard Church |
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Séipéal Iolaird
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 Ullard Church
Location in Ireland
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| 52°34′49″N 6°55′58″W / 52.580245°N 6.932714°W | |
| Location | Ullard, Borris, County Kilkenny |
| Country | Ireland |
| Denomination | Church of Ireland |
| Previous denomination | Pre-Reformation Catholic |
| History | |
| Founder(s) | Saint Fiacre, Mo Ling |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | |
| Official name | Ullard Church |
| Reference no. | 670 |
| Style | Romanesque |
| Years built | 12th century |
| Specifications | |
| Length | 20 m (66 ft) |
| Width | 5.25 m (17.2 ft) |
| Nave width | 7.2 m (24 ft) |
| Height | 8 m (26 ft) |
| Number of floors | 1 |
| Floor area | 110 m2 (1,200 sq ft) |
| Materials | granite |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Ossory |
Ullard Church is a very old church in County Kilkenny, Ireland. It is a special place called a National Monument. This means it is an important historical site protected by the country. The church was built many centuries ago.
Contents
Where is Ullard Church Located?
Ullard Church is found in a peaceful spot in County Kilkenny. It is about 700 meters (less than half a mile) west of the River Barrow. The church is also about 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) south of a town called Borris, County Carlow.
The History of Ullard Church
The story of Ullard Church begins a very long time ago. Some people believe a monastery was started here in the 7th century. This was around the 600s AD. Two important saints, Saint Fiacre or Mo Ling, might have founded it.
When Was the Stone Church Built?
The stone church you see today was built in the 12th century. This means it is about 800 to 900 years old! Over time, the inside of the church changed. In the 16th century, around the 1500s, some parts were rebuilt. The beautiful Romanesque doorway was changed. The main part of the church was made wider. A stairway was also built into the wall.
Handball Alley at the Church
Around the year 1900, something interesting happened. A Gaelic handball alley was built right next to the church. People used one of the church walls as part of the alley. This was common in southeast Ireland. Old castles or churches often had strong stone walls. These walls were perfect for playing handball.
What to See at Ullard Church
Ullard Church is a small church made from local granite stone. It has a special design called Romanesque. This style is known for its round arches.
The Romanesque Doorway
The church's doorway is a great example of Romanesque art. It used to have three layers of decoration. The inner layer has been rebuilt over time. Below the altar, there is a hidden room called a crypt.
The Ancient High Cross
Next to the church stands a tall high cross. It is about 4 meters (13 feet) high. This cross has a closed ring around its top. This style is typical of crosses found in the Barrow Valley area.
What is Carved on the Cross?
The cross has many detailed carvings. You can see scenes from the Bible. These include the Crucifixion of Jesus, Adam and Eve, and David playing his harp. There is also a carving of the Binding of Isaac. These carvings tell stories from long ago.
Other Interesting Spots Nearby
In the field north of the church, you can find two bullaun stones. These are large stones with bowl-shaped hollows. They are nestled under some trees. Further north is Saint Fiacre's holy well. Local people used to take a bottle of water from this well. They believed it would bring them good luck when they traveled far away.
