Teampall Bheanáin: Ireland's Smallest Church
Discover Ireland's smallest church, Teampall Bheanáin, on Inishmore: a historic oratory with stunning views and unique Celtic architecture.
Perched atop a hill on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, Teampall Bheanáin is an early Christian oratory dating back to the 11th century. Dedicated to Saint Benan, a disciple of Saint Patrick, this tiny, roofless structure is considered by some to be the smallest church in Ireland. Its unique north-south orientation and dry-stone construction make it a captivating historical landmark.
A brief summary to Teampall Bheanáin
- Inishmore, Killeany, Co. Galway, IE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the church, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
- Take time to explore the surrounding landscape for stunning coastal views.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere around the church.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kilronan, the main village on Inishmore, you can walk to Teampall Bheanáin. Head southwest on the main road. The walk is approximately 5 km (about 3.1 miles) and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. When you reach Killeany, look for signs pointing to Teampall Bheanáin. The temple is a short detour from the main road. The trail to the temple passes through cow pastures, so follow the signposts.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle in Kilronan to explore Inishmore. Cycle southwest towards Killeany. Follow the main road along the coast, enjoying the scenic views. Teampall Bheanáin is located just off the main road. Look for a small sign indicating the temple's site. It's about a 5 km (3.1 miles) ride from Kilronan, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. Bicycle rentals are readily available at the pier in Kilronan. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a day's rental.
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Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Inishmore. A taxi ride from Kilronan to Teampall Bheanáin will take approximately 10 minutes. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Public Transport
Local bus services operate on Inishmore. Take the bus from the main ferry terminal towards Killeany. Inform the driver that you wish to disembark near Teampall Bheanáin. From the bus stop in Killeany, the temple is a short walk. Bus fare is approximately €5. Confirm bus schedules ahead of time.
Discover more about Teampall Bheanáin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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