Jerpoint Abbey — Attraction in The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown

Ruins of a Cistercian Abbey. Renowned for the Stone carvings in the cloister. The overall level of stone carving and decoration in the Abbey is probably unique in Europe within a Cistercian monastery as decorative austerity was part of their ideal. The Chapter Room features a short audio visual presentation and an exhibition of carved stone, each piece labelled and put in context. There is a view of the cloister area from above from the monk's dormitory which can be accessed from a wooden stairs where the original night stairs would have stood. Of significance are a number of tombs carved by the O'Tunney family, renowned stonemasons from Kilkenny during the medieval period. There are number of "Weepers" carved on these representing various Saints and Apostles such Saint James the Greater, Saint Peter, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, the Archangel Michael and so on. One of the more unusual tombslabs, found in a side Chapel off the chancel, depicts The Brethren, the images of two Knights in full armour are incised on it. There is an effigy of an ecclesiastical figure in the Chancel that is believed to be that of Felix, the first Abbot of the Abbey. There is an exhibition in the visitor centre featuring other sites of historic interest in the area. There are also public toilets in the visitor centre. There is no charge for parking at the site but the entrance-exit is on a dangerous bend and care must be taken...

I have been looking forward to coming to Jerpoint for a long time as it is important to a book I'm researching. Went with my son, dog and partner today completely unaware that dogs aren't allowed on the grounds. There was no barrier at the reception centre. This made it seem to us that the (very high) entrance fees were for guided tours. As soon as we walked up toward the church itself a staff member shouted to us that no dogs were allowed and that we had to pay. At this, of course, my little boy who is three plummeted into tears because he wasn't allowed into the 'castle" that we had driven for well over an hour to see. We left, having been humiliated, rather than paying in myself while my partner took the dog for a walk elsewhere. While I understand that some sites can't allow dogs, please take in to consideration that people may have travelled to the site especially and the attitude of staff can be extremely upsetting. If I treated a customer in my place if work in the way we were treated today I would be severely...

Jerpoint Abbey is an absolute gem nestled in County Kilkenny’s lush countryside. The twelfth-century Cistercian ruins remain remarkably intact, inviting exploration beneath lofty arches, graceful cloisters, and serene chapter rooms. Delicately carved stone figures and vivid biblical panels adorn the cloister arcade, each telling its own story and rewarding lingering inspection. The enthusiastic guides weave local legend and history into captivating commentary, yet give visitors space to wander at their own pace. Interpretive displays are concise and informative, and the small visitor centre sells excellent guidebooks and Irish crafts. Free parking, spotless facilities, and peaceful grounds dotted with wildflowers complete the experience. Plan at least an hour to absorb its timeless magic. You will leave inspired and...