Just a few hundred metres from the famous Rock of Cashel (County Tipperary) stands Hore Abbey, a ruined Cistercian monastery. The edifice dates back to the 13th century, and today offers a fine view of its ruins. A magnificent site, a must-see!
La Hore abbey – © bacothelock
Hore Abbey is believed to have been built around the 12th / 13th century by Benedictine monks.
However, the story goes that the archbishop at the time, Mgr David MacCearbhaill, dreamt one night that the Benedictines were murdering him. Seeing this dream as a premonition, he decided to drive the Benedictines out of the abbey, eventually ceding it to the Cistercians in 1270.
Admittedly, this story is more legend than fact.
Nevertheless, the abbey has survived to the present day: its walls are still standing, and the remains give an excellent idea of what Hore Abbey might have looked like in its early years.
Visits are free and open to all. Don’t miss the building’s still remarkable vaulted ceilings: the windows are still visible, and the carving and engraving are absolutely incredible.
Among its curiosities, you’ll notice that the cloister is located on the north side: a rare arrangement for a Cistercian cloister. Researchers attribute this to the proximity of the Rock of Cashel.
Want to extend your visit without having to rush around? Here are a few well-located places to stay near the must-see attractions.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
in Cashel , Cashel (County Tipperary) - Republic of Ireland
52.518591, -7.897931
30 minutes
