Donegal Abbey

Not far from the castle are the ruins of a small Franciscan Abbey, built at the same time as Donegal Castle by the O’Donnell clan: Donegal Abbey. Magnificent, the site is worth the detour!

Visit Donegal Abbey

The place where the Annals of the Four Masters were written

Donegal Abbey was once a major cultural and religious center, with monks busy writing magnificent works.

It was here, moreover, that the writing of the “Annals of the Four Masters” began, a work compiling numerous chronicles from different periods of Irish history. Today, this work is considered one of the most precious manuscripts of the period, providing us with a wealth of information on Gaelic culture in Ireland, from all periods.

Access to the site is free, and includes the abbey ruins, as well as a small cemetery overlooking a most charming landscape! The site is quiet and romantic, and the remains will give you a good idea of the abbey’s original state. The program features foundations, pediments still intact, and tombs topped with Celtic crosses!

A must-see if you’re in the area!