Na Seacht d'Teampaill (Seven Churches) • Go-to-Ireland.com

Located on the island of Inishmore, in the heart of the Aran Islands, Na Seacht d’Teampaill, also known as Seven Churches, is no ordinary historic site. Here, you won’t find any roofs or stained-glass windows, just an irresistible collection of old stones that tell you stories, each more fascinating than the last. The site is magnificent and can be visited freely, for a journey through the Irish Middle Ages.

History of Na Seacht d’Teampaill

A site that developed from the 8th to the 13th century

Let me warn you right away: the Seven Churches are not really seven! In fact, there are two main churches and several other buildings, but who really counts when you’re surrounded by so much ruined beauty?

Dating from the 8th to the 13th century, this site was once an important center of pilgrimage and religious study. Its influence on the island of Inishmore made it well known beyond Ireland’s borders, even welcoming Scottish and English monks to enjoy the local setting and teachings.

Over the centuries, the site unfortunately fell into disuse, even falling into ruin. However, its current state tells us a great deal about its initial state.

Visit Seven Churches

A mosaic of buildings steeped in history

The site can be reached by taking a small road to the right, at the entrance to the village of Onaght. Alone in the middle of nowhere, this place possesses a rare magic.

The first church was named Teampall Bhreacáin. This imposing building dates from between the 8th and 10th centuries. Its name comes from Saint Brecan, a monk and missionary who is said to have founded several churches on the Aran Islands and in other parts of Ireland.

The site comprises several structures, including a main church and several smaller chapels or oratories, as well as gravestones and Celtic crosses. Teampall Brecain’s architecture is typical of the early Romanesque style, with features such as arched doorways and small, rounded windows.

The second church is smaller. Named Teampall an Phoill, it is one of the complex’s most distinctive structures. It is so named because of its location in a natural depression or hollow.

Surrounding the site are outbuildings and a cemetery, with three large, sculpted crosses worn down by the centuries. And don’t miss the penitential beds, typical of the period.

The atmosphere is beautiful, as are the surrounding landscapes. Don’t hesitate to take a few photos!