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Teampall Bheanáin: Ireland's Tiniest Church

Discover the serene beauty and ancient history of Teampall Bheanáin, a tiny 11th-century church on Inishmore with stunning panoramic views.

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Perched atop a hill on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, Teampall Bheanáin is a remarkably small 11th-century oratory. Believed by some to be the smallest church in Ireland, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into early Christian monastic life.

A brief summary to Teampall Bheanáin

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the church, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Visit during the early 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.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kilronan, the main village, walk southwest on the main road. After roughly 5 km, you'll reach Killeany. Look for signs pointing to Teampall Bheanáin, a short detour from the main road. The walk from Killeany to the temple is about 30 minutes and offers scenic views. Consider that the trail passes through cow pastures.

  • Bicycle

    Rent a bicycle in Kilronan. Cycle southwest towards Killeany. Follow the main road along the coast. Teampall Bheanáin is located just off the main road; look for a small sign. The ride is approximately 5 km and takes about 20-30 minutes. Bike rentals typically range from €10-€20 per day.

  • Public Transport

    From the ferry terminal, take the local bus service towards Killeany. Buses typically run every 30 minutes during peak season. Inform the driver you wish to disembark at Teampall Bheanáin. The fare is approximately €5. From the bus stop in Killeany, the temple is a 10-minute walk.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout the island. A taxi ride from Kilronan to Teampall Bheanáin will take around 10 minutes and cost approximately €10-€15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Teampall Bheanáin

Teampall Bheanáin, also known as St. Benan's Church, is a unique and captivating historical site located on Inishmore, one of the Aran Islands in Galway Bay. This tiny oratory, dating back to the 11th century, is considered by some to be the smallest church in Ireland, measuring a mere 3.2 by 2.1 meters. Dedicated to Saint Benan (Benignus of Armagh), a disciple of Saint Patrick, the church stands as a testament to early Christian monasticism in Ireland. Tradition holds that Saint Benan founded a monastery on Inishmore in the 6th century and built a small cell on the hill where Teampall Bheanáin now stands. The oratory is believed to have been his tomb shrine, a place where pilgrims came to venerate his relics. The structure is built from massive blocks of stone, carefully fitted together without mortar, using a technique known as dry-stone construction. Its thick walls feature a narrow, keyhole-shaped entrance and a small window facing the Irish mainland. Unusually, the church is oriented on a north-south axis rather than the typical east-west alignment. The roofless building has 15-foot-tall gables that give it a striking appearance despite its small size. Located near the village of Killeany, reaching Teampall Bheanáin involves a scenic 2-km walk along a trail that passes through cow pastures. The site also includes remnants of a cashel wall (a circular stone enclosure) and foundations of clochán-style dwellings (beehive huts), offering a glimpse into the layout of an early Christian monastic site. Down the hill, one can find further remains of a round tower and a Celtic cross.

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