If you love medieval religious buildings, then don’t miss St Mary’s Church in Clonmel, a superb 13th-century Irish church. Although ancient, it was rebuilt several times, following repeated assaults by the British (including Oliver Cromwell). Clonmel’s magnificent church is a veritable treasure trove of the town’s heritage, not to be missed under any circumstances!
The Old St Mary Church was built in 1204 by William de Burgh, and is one of the earliest buildings in Clonmel. Magnificent, the edifice was fortified to resist potential attackers. This explains its crenellated towers, loophole windows and thick stone walls.
However, the church as we know it today took shape during the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. It was repeatedly renovated following the devastation caused by Cromwell’s siege and other battles…
The church is 27 meters square, with an 84-meter steeple and a fortified tower that once served as a residence and sacristy. A small cemetery is also part of the building, consisting mainly of Celtic crosses and other typically Irish steles. Don’t hesitate to visit the interior of the building: you’ll be seduced by the beauty of its architecture, its stained glass windows and the subtlety of its Gothic sculptures!
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