Background

Quin Friary: A Franciscan Haven Amidst Castle Ruins

Explore Quin Friary: Where medieval abbey meets Norman castle ruins in County Clare's historic village of Quin.

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Quin Friary, nestled in the heart of County Clare, is a remarkable abbey founded in 1402 by the MacNamara clan, built upon the ruins of a 13th-century Anglo-Norman castle. This unique setting offers visitors a captivating blend of medieval ecclesiastical architecture and the remnants of a Norman fortress, creating a historical tapestry unlike any other.

A brief summary to Quin Friary

  • Quin, Quin, Co. Clare, IE

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the grounds involves walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Ennis, take Bus Éireann route 317 or 318 towards Quin. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Alight at the Quin stop, which is a short walk to the friary. A single fare costs around €4-€6.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Ennis to Quin Friary. The journey is approximately 10 km and takes about 10 minutes. Expect to pay around €17-€21 for the trip.

  • Walking

    From the center of Quin village, Quin Friary is easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs towards the friary, which is located near the Rine River and the modern Catholic Church. The walk is short and straightforward.

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Discover more about Quin Friary

Quin Friary, also known as Quin Abbey, is located in the village of Quin, County Clare. The friary's story is one of resilience, built upon the foundations of an Anglo-Norman castle constructed in 1278 by Thomas de Clare. The castle was destroyed in 1318 by the MacNamara clan, who later granted the site to the Franciscans. The friary was founded in 1402 by Síoda Cam MacNamara and became an Observant Reformed house in 1433. Over the centuries, the friary faced suppression, attacks, and periods of abandonment, yet it persevered. The last of the friars, John Hogan, remained in the area until his death in 1820. Today, the site is managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW). Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the church with its nave and chancel, a central tower, and the remains of the cloister and domestic buildings. Architectural highlights include the round-headed doorway at the church's entrance, lancet windows, and the tower with its tierceron ribs and bell rope holes. The friary's integration with the castle ruins is evident in the surviving corner towers and the unusually wide south and east walls of the church. The magnificent cloister, dating back to the 15th century, is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Franciscan architecture in Ireland.

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