Corcomroe Abbey — Attraction in County Clare

Corcomroe Cistercian monastery in County Galway was founded in this remote valley in the late 12th century.

The Cistercian Order came to Ireland in 1142 and preferred isolated and underpopulated locations for its monasteries . Nowhere is this more obvious than at Corcomroe, where the monastery stands in a small, fertile valley surrounded by barren rock surfaces. It was founded in 1194 by Dónal Mór O' Brien, King of Thomond, who built many churches.

The design of the church was typically Cistercian: the main part of the church -- the nave -- had aisles, the east end or presbytery had a stone vaulted roof, and to the side are transepts with small chapels. Only fragments remain of the other parts of the monastery, including the cloister court, the gatehouse, and what may have been the infirmary or guesthouse. Despite the high quality of sculpture in the church, Corcomroe was not a wealthy monastery. By the 15th century it was too poor to sustain a full community of monks and the church was shortened by the insertion of a roughly built wall.

One of the monastery's benefactors was Dónal Mór's grandson, Conor na Siúdaine O' Brien, whose effigy can be seen...

Corcomroe Abbey (St Mary of the Fertile Rock) is a stunning 12th/13th-century Cistercian ruin set right in the heart of the Burren. The dramatic limestone landscape makes the location as impressive as the abbey itself. The Gothic stonework and carving details are remarkable, giving the whole site a peaceful, atmospheric feel. One of the highlights is the intricately carved tomb of King Conor O’Brien (grandson of Brian Boru), who died in 1267 — a real connection to Ireland’s royal past. Practical bits: there are no toilets, but a small parking area is right outside the gate. Entry is free, and you’re free to roam the abbey and grounds at your own pace. Quiet, photogenic, and steeped in history — Corcomroe is well...

13th century Cistercian Abbey ruins with an active graveyard. The ruins are well maintained and loaded with history. Grave markers are very clean and readable if you interested in that sort of thing. The architecture of the building is pretty impressive. Massive walls with arches and gateways and some nice windows. There is a decent bell tower to look at. The chapels and sanctuary are excellent with ceilings and carvings to take a good look at. Spent about 30 minutes here, could do longer if you want to shoot more photos. There are no toilets and it's down a long desolate road. There is no admission fee. There is plenty of...