Murrisk Abbey

Murrisk Abbey

Murrisk abbey - theilr - cc

Visiter Murrisk Abbey.

Murrisk Abbey is a former Augustinian abbey, built in 1457 by Hugh O’Malley. The site was built on a highly symbolic location: it was here that Saint Patrick is said to have built his original church!

Visit Murrisk Abbey

A church built near Croagh Patrick

Murrisk Abbey is said to have been founded late in the 15th century on the authorization of Pope Calluistus. The latter wished to establish a church in Croagh Patrick, judging that“the inhabitants of this region had not hitherto been instructed in the faith“.

Today, the abbey is partially destroyed, and consists of a crenellated main aisle, pediments pierced by ogival windows, and a wing dedicated to the monks’ living quarters. Don’t miss the pretty window behind the main altar: it’s the best preserved in the building!

An old bell tower stood to the west of Murrisk Abbey. Now collapsed, all you can make out are the foundations and a vaulted ceiling.

In the cemetery, you’ll find some lovely tombs, as well as those of the O’Malley family who founded the abbey.


Murrisk Abbey
Practical information

Adresse Adresse :
near Croagh Patrick, Murrisk, (Mayo County) - Republic of Ireland

Coordonnées GPSGPS :
53.782018, -9.639537
TarifsRates :
  • free of charge
Horaires d'ouvertureOpening hours :

free access



Murrisk Abbey on a map



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