Clonfert Cathedral is a magnificent monastery dating back to the 6th century, founded by Saint Brendan de Clonfert. Now considered the cathedral of Brendanstown, and the diocese of Clonfert, the cathedral is an architectural marvel well worth a visit…
After establishing a convent at Aleth in France (not far from Saint Malo), Saint Brendan, an evangelist of the Catholic Church, decided to go to Ireland in 561, to found the monastery of Clonfert 2 years later.
The abbey soon became an important religious and cultural center in the region. It was here that future missionaries were trained and sent throughout Europe during the Middle Ages… The monastery is becoming increasingly well-known, and is also becoming an important center for monks practicing calligraphy and the art of illumination on large-scale writings… In this way, important old books are hand-crafted by an increasingly experienced clergy…
Over the centuries, the monastery was gradually enlarged, with new stained glass windows and a Romanesque porch featuring magnificent mermaids and dragons… Little by little, the monastery grew in size, eventually becoming the official seat of the diocese of Clonfert… And to further consecrate the edifice, the abbey is now considered a veritable cathedral, despite its small size!
Clonfert Cathedral has been enlarged over the centuries… That’s why some of the monastery’s wings are from different periods… In general, the abbey is in the Romanesque style and comprises :
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Clonfert South (Seymour), County Galway (County Galway) - Republic of Ireland
53.240698, -8.058046
30 minutes
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