Monk's Fishing House: A Glimpse into Medieval Monastic Life
Explore the historic Monk's Fishing House in Cong, County Mayo: a testament to medieval ingenuity and monastic life on the scenic River Cong.
The Monk's Fishing House, located near Cong Abbey in County Mayo, is a small, roofless 15th or 16th-century stone structure used by monks for fishing on the River Cong. Built on a stone platform over an arch, it provided shelter and a direct connection to the river for catching fish.
A brief summary to Monk’s Fishing House
- Abbey St, Cong, Cong South, Co. Mayo, IE
Local tips
- Combine a visit to the Monk's Fishing House with a tour of the nearby Cong Abbey to fully appreciate the historical context.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk from Cong Abbey through the woodland to the fishing house.
- Visit during the spring or autumn to witness salmon leaping in the river.
Getting There
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Walking
The Monk's Fishing House is easily accessible by foot from the village of Cong. From the center of Cong, walk towards Cong Abbey. Pass through the abbey ruins, and follow the signposted path through the Cong Woods towards the River Cong. The walk is short and scenic, taking approximately 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking to the site.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport to Cong, the Monk's Fishing House is a short walk from the bus stop. From the Cong bus stop, walk towards the village center and follow the signs for Cong Abbey. Once at the abbey, follow the walking directions above. Bus Eireann serves Cong from Galway and other nearby towns. A single fare from Galway to Cong costs approximately €8-€12.
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