Ballintubber Abbey

Ballintober, Mayo County, Republic of Ireland

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Visiter Ballintubber Abbey.

Founded in 1216, this church has been going strong ever since! An 800-year-old building, a symbol of resilience in Ireland!

In the verdant landscape of County Mayo, stands a church over 800 years old! This is Ballintubber Abbey, a church built in 1216. Known as “the abbey that refused to die”, it holds a special place in the hearts of the Irish. One of a kind, it is famous for being the only church in Ireland founded by an Irish king and still in daily use since its foundation over 8 centuries ago!

History of Ballintubber Abbey

A church that has survived the worst of Irish history…

Ballintubber Abbey was established in 1216 by King Cathal Crovdearg O’Conor. It was built near a sacred spring dedicated to Saint Patrick, making it an important center of faith and learning for the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine.

For centuries, despite political turmoil and changes in power, the abbey prospered, becoming a pillar of the religious community.

But things got complicated in the 16th century, when the English Reformation initiated by King Henry VIII led to the dissolution of monasteries across England and Ireland. During this process, many religious buildings were dismantled, their land seized and often sold to private owners or used for secular purposes. Ballintubber Abbey, like many other monastic establishments in Ireland, did not escape these upheavals.

In the 17th century, during the Irish Confederate Wars and Cromwellian repressions, the abbey suffered further damage. Under Oliver Cromwell, Ireland experienced a particularly brutal period of religious persecution and destruction of Catholic institutions. Ballintubber Abbey, as a symbol of the Irish Catholic faith, was a particular target. Its roof was destroyed and not rebuilt for several centuries.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that the abbey underwent a veritable renaissance. Renewed interest in its historical and spiritual significance has led to major restoration efforts.

In 1966, Ballintubber Abbey finally had its roof fully restored, putting an end to 236 years during which the church continued to celebrate masses, despite the absence of a roof!

These efforts revitalized the abbey, returning it to its former glory.

Today, Ballintubber Abbey is not only a historic monument; it also attracts tourists and pilgrims, in particular for the “Tochar Phadraig”, an ancient pilgrimage route leading to Croagh Patrick. Masses and religious events are regularly held here, testifying to the uninterrupted continuity of worship since its foundation.

Visit Ballintubber Abbey

A church with simple, massive architecture

The architecture of Ballintubber Abbey is a fascinating blend of historic styles, reflecting the different periods of its long history. Mainly Gothic in style, with Romanesque influences, it is a fine example of medieval architecture in Ireland.

On the outside, the abbey’s facade is quite simple. Its cross-shaped layout is typical of the Gothic style, with pointed-arched windows and pointed vaults. The main entrance, with its detailed, ornate portal and capitals typical of medieval architecture, is particularly admired.

Ruins are still present, as is a pretty cemetery with Celtic graves and crosses. Some of them are centuries old!

Inside, the abbey is luminous with its bright white walls and varnished wood roof. Slender Gothic vaults and pointed arches create a sense of height and space.

The robust columns and pillars bear witness to the Romanesque influence, providing an interesting contrast to the finer Gothic elements.

The windows, though simple in design, allow light to penetrate, playing with the stone and creating a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.

Don’t hesitate to pay us a visit. Photos may be taken, provided you remain discreet.