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Teampall Caomhán: The Sunken Church of Inisheer

Discover the enchanting 'Sunken Church' of Teampall Caomhán on Inisheer, a unique historical landmark offering a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past.

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Teampall Caomhán, also known as St. Caomhán's Church or the 'Sunken Church,' is a captivating historical site on Inisheer, the smallest of the Aran Islands. Dating back to the 10th century, this ancient church is partially buried in sand, offering a unique glimpse into the island's past and the resilience of its community.

A brief summary to Teampall Caomhán

  • 2 Baile Na Gleanna, Inisheer, Inisheer, Co. Galway, H91 FNN0, 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, as the path to Teampall Caomhán can be uneven.
  • Check the ferry schedule in advance, as it varies depending on the season.
  • Consider renting a bike at the pier to explore the island and reach the church quickly.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    To reach Teampall Caomhán, you must first take a ferry to Inisheer Island. Ferries depart from Doolin in County Clare (seasonal, April to October) and Rossaveal in County Galway (year-round). From Doolin, the ferry takes about 15-30 minutes. A round trip ticket costs approximately €32 for adults. From Rossaveal, the ferry takes approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour 55 minutes. A round trip ticket from Galway City Centre costs around €96. Once on Inisheer, Teampall Caomhán is about 2 km from the pier.

  • Walking

    From the Inisheer pier, Teampall Caomhán is approximately a 25-30 minute walk. Follow the coastal path towards the village of Baile Na Gleanna, following signs for Teampall Caomhán. The path can be uneven, so wear appropriate footwear. There is no cost associated with walking to the site.

  • Bicycle Rental

    Bicycles can be rented near the pier on Inisheer. Rental typically costs around €10 for a half-day. Follow the road towards Baile Na Gleanna; the journey to Teampall Caomhán takes about 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Teampall Caomhán

Located on Inisheer (Inis Oírr), the smallest of the Aran Islands, Teampall Caomhán, or St. Caomhán's Church, presents a unique and intriguing historical landmark. This ancient church, dating back to the 10th century, is dedicated to St. Caomhán, the island's patron saint, who is believed to have established a monastic community on Inisheer in the 6th century. Some accounts suggest Caomhán was the brother of St. Kevin of Glendalough. Over the centuries, the church gradually became submerged in sand due to strong winds, which gave it the name the 'Sunken Church'. Excavated and maintained by the islanders, the church stands as a testament to their enduring connection to their heritage. While only the chancel remains visible today, it is one of the best-preserved examples of a 10th-century church in Ireland. Visiting Teampall Caomhán offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of early inhabitants and the architectural styles of the time. The grave of St. Caomhán is located to the northeast of the church, and it is said that people are cured of illnesses there. The island itself offers stunning coastal views and a chance to engage with the friendly locals, who are always happy to share stories of the island's heritage.

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