Muckross Abbey
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Discover Muckross Abbey Muckross Abbey in County Kerry, Ireland, is a 15th-century Franciscan friary that combines history and natural beauty. Here's what you need to know: Location: Find Muckross Abbey in Killarney National Park, a short drive from Killarney town. Highlights: Explore the atmospheric ruins, admire the unique architecture, and soak in the serene surroundings. Hours and Admission: Check the abbey's opening hours and note that entry is usually free. Must-See: Don't miss the central courtyard, grand cloister, tower, and stone tombs. Cultural Significance: Learn about the abbey's historical role as a burial place and refuge for persecuted monks. Photography and Respect: Capture the beauty, but be respectful and observe silence within the abbey. Nearby Attractions: Take time to visit Muckross House and Gardens, Torc Waterfall, and the scenic lakes of Killarney. Enjoy your journey through time and Irish heritage at Muckross Abbey!
Aurelien GilbertAurelien Gilbert
00
Not far from Killarney lies Muckross Abbey, a fantastic place for those interested in ruins, Irish history and fantastic photo opportunities! The Abbey was founded about 1448, and the friars remained there at least until Comwellian times. Today there are nothing left but ruins, although these ruins are rather well-reserved, and give access to a second floor, a vaulted cloister with arcades of arches around a square courtyard inside which a tree proudly grows. There is a parking spot in front, and you either walk there or take one of the horse carriages (although I would not advise this as I really pity these poor horses that have to stand around all day until tourists wants to be taken somewhere). The parking spot and the visit to the Abbey are free, and it’s one of the finest ruins I have ever visited and I hope I can come back one day!
Flynn On TourFlynn On Tour
00
Best ruins we visited in Ireland. I know there are a thousand things to see in Ireland, and one can't get to see it all, but we went all the way around Ireland and were amazed at this place. There are so many places to explore in the Abbey. Would never be allowed to do that in the States in fear of someone getting hurt and suing, but here you could wander through most of it on your own, and it is open all the time. We wanted to go near dusk but didn't work that way. The grounds outside the Abbey are worth exploring, too! And the Yew tree was a sight still standing tall and strong!! As an fyi there is a small parking area RIGHT at the Abbey. You don't have to walk btwn the house and Abbey, you can then drive to the house. The 1.5-2km walk was easy and beautiful though.
Monica VentersMonica Venters
00
You have to visit it. Entry is free. Muckross Abbey, nestled within the enchanting Muckross Estate in Killarney, Ireland, is a hauntingly beautiful relic of the past. Founded in the 15th century, this historic Franciscan friary offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland's medieval heritage. The abbey's stone ruins, cloisters, and ancient yew tree create a serene, contemplative atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of the mystical Killarney National Park, it's a photographer's dream and a place for reflection. Exploring its moss-covered tombs and Gothic architecture transports visitors to another time. Muckross Abbey is a hidden gem where history and nature intertwine, offering a unique and evocative experience for all who visit.
Gábor MajerGábor Majer
00
We saw a lot of ruins in Ireland, so we didn’t expect this to be much different, or anything particularly memorable, especially since there was no admission fee and no guided tour. We were so wrong! It started when we got to the cloister and saw the magnificent yew tree growing right out the middle, with a thick, braid-like trunk. The abbey is mostly intact with multiple stories of rooms that you can wander through. There’s barely any guidance on what you’re seeing, except one tile by the tree that gave a bit of a floor plan. It was so fun to discover this place on our own and imagine ourselves back in time! Stop here if you can!
Beth MalenaBeth Malena
00
Worth the trip! We almost forgot to stop here but extremely glad we didn’t. Rich in history and allows you to see so much more of the national park. We had a lovely man offer a ride with his horse and carriage. That was a lifesaver as that day was extremely windy and raining (Rain wasn’t much of a bother but that wind!) The walk up to the back where Muckross house is a good walk so make sure to set aside enough time for that or take a carriage ride! I loved our ride as he gave us so much history that we would have probably missed. One of my favorite parts of our trip, counting the days we can go back!
Kimberly CuellarKimberly Cuellar
00
Nearby Attractions Of Muckross Abbey
Muckross Park Hotel & Spa
Muckross Traditional Farms
Muckross Park Hotel & Spa
4.7
(621)Click for details
Muckross Traditional Farms
4.7
(97)Click for details
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Address
Muckross, Co. Kerry, Ireland
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Description
Muckross Abbey is one of the major ecclesiastical sites, found in the Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland. It was founded in 1448 as a Franciscan friary for the Observantine Franciscans by Donal McCarthy Mor. It has had a violent history and has been damaged and reconstructed many times.
attractions: Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, Muckross Traditional Farms, restaurants:
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