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Rosserk Friary: A Window to Medieval Ireland

Explore Rosserk Friary, a beautifully preserved 15th-century Franciscan monastery on the River Moy, offering a glimpse into Ireland's monastic past.

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Rosserk Friary, near Killala Bay in County Mayo, is a remarkably well-preserved Franciscan monastery founded in the 15th century. Despite being burned in 1590, its ruins showcase late Irish Gothic architecture, including a detailed church doorway and unique double piscina. The tranquil setting on the River Moy offers a glimpse into Ireland's monastic past.

A brief summary to Rosserk Friary

Local tips

  • Take your time exploring the grounds to fully appreciate the well-preserved architectural details and stone carvings.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Moyne Abbey to see another impressive monastic ruin from the same era.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Ballina, take the Bus Éireann route 443 towards Carrowkelly. The bus journey takes approximately 40 minutes and costs between €3 to €6. From Carrowkelly, it's a short walk to Rosserk Friary.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Ballina. A taxi from Ballina to Rosserk Friary takes approximately 10 minutes and costs around €16 to €20. Taxi services can also be found in Killala, which is closer to the Friary, if you are arriving there by bus.

  • Car

    If driving from Ballina, head south on the N26 towards Foxford. After about 10 km, turn left onto the R294 towards Killala. Continue on the R294 for approximately 12 km, and you will see signs for Rosserk Friary as you approach the village of Rosserk. The Friary is located just off the main road with parking available nearby.

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Discover more about Rosserk Friary

Nestled on the banks of the River Moy, close to Killala Bay in County Mayo, lies Rosserk Friary, a testament to Ireland's rich medieval past. Founded around 1440 by the Joyce family for the Friars of the Franciscan Third Order Regular, Rosserk Friary stands as one of the best-preserved Franciscan monasteries in Ireland. Dedicated to the Third Order of St. Francis, the friary served not only as a place of worship but also as an educational hub. The friars actively engaged with the local community, teaching Latin, mathematics, and the history and culture of Gaelic Ireland, thus preserving the region's heritage. The friary's architecture reflects the late Irish Gothic style. The church features a single-aisle nave, two chantry chapels in the south transept, and a bell-tower suspended over the chancel arch. The stone doorway leading into the church displays fine carvings, and in the south-east corner of the chancel, a double piscina features a carving of a round tower, angels, and instruments of the Passion. The conventual buildings are also well-preserved, with three vaulted rooms on each side, and fireplaces still visible in the upper-floor dormitory, refectory, and kitchen. In 1590, Rosserk Friary, along with nearby Moyne Abbey, was burned by Sir Richard Bingham, Governor of Connaught, during the reign of Elizabeth I. Despite this destruction, much of the structure remains intact, offering visitors a tangible connection to the lives of the Franciscan community who once resided here. Today, Rosserk Friary is a National Monument, inviting visitors to explore its historic grounds and appreciate its architectural details.

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