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St. Mary's Abbey: A Medieval Chapter Uncovered
Unearth medieval Dublin at St. Mary's Abbey, a hidden chapter of Cistercian history beneath the city's bustling Smithfield.
Discover the hidden chapter house and slype of St. Mary's Abbey, once the wealthiest Cistercian abbey in Ireland, nestled in Dublin's Smithfield. Founded in 1139, this historical site offers a glimpse into medieval Dublin and the religious order's significant role in the city's past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to St Marys Abbey
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
4 Meetinghouse Ln, Mary's Abbey, Dublin 7, Smithfield, D07 VY06, IE
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Getting There
Public Transport
St. Mary's Abbey is easily accessible via Dublin's public transportation network. From Dublin city center, take the Luas Red Line to the Smithfield stop. Upon exiting the tram, walk towards Smithfield Square and turn onto Meetinghouse Lane, where you'll find the Abbey. A single Luas fare within the city center is approximately €2.00 with a Leap Card. Alternatively, many Dublin Bus routes serve the nearby quays; check Transport for Ireland's Journey Planner for the best option from your starting point. A single Dublin Bus fare is approximately €2.00 - €3.10, depending on the distance.
Walking
From the city center, St. Mary's Abbey is within walking distance. From O'Connell Street, walk west along the quays, crossing the River Liffey at Capel Street Bridge. Turn left onto Capel Street, then take the first right onto Meetinghouse Lane. The Abbey will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. Note: portions of the walk may have cobblestones or uneven surfaces.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Dublin. A taxi from O'Connell Street to St. Mary's Abbey will cost approximately €8-€15, depending on traffic. Note that fares may be higher during peak hours or on weekends. There are taxi ranks located throughout the city center, or you can hail a taxi on the street.
Local tips
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Check the Heritage Ireland website for current opening hours, as they can vary seasonally.
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The exhibition space is accessed by stairs only; note that there is no elevator.
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Combine your visit with a stroll through Smithfield, known for its vibrant atmosphere and markets.
Discover more about St Marys Abbey
St. Mary's Abbey, once a dominant Cistercian abbey in Ireland, now exists as a captivating historical fragment beneath the modern streets of Dublin. Founded in 1139, the abbey played a crucial role in the country's religious and political affairs until its dissolution by Henry VIII in 1539. Today, visitors can explore the remaining chapter house and slype, remnants of a once-sprawling monastic complex.
The chapter house, where monks gathered for morning mass and other rituals, was richly decorated. It was here in 1534 that 'Silken' Thomas Fitzgerald initiated his rebellion against the crown. The slype, a corridor connecting the cloister to the east, once led to the infirmary.
Over time, the abbey fell into disrepair, with its stones repurposed for projects like the Essex Bridge (now Grattan Bridge) in 1676. The site was eventually built over, becoming a dumping ground before being rediscovered by an amateur archaeologist in 1880, buried beneath a bakery. Today, an exhibition within the chapter house tells the story of St. Mary's Abbey, its history, and its place in Dublin's development.
Visiting St. Mary's Abbey offers a unique perspective on Dublin's medieval past, revealing a hidden layer of history beneath the bustling city.
A brief summary to St Marys Abbey
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