The Black Abbey

The Black Abbey is a Catholic Dominican abbey in the town of Kilkenny. Created in 1225 by William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, the building is still in use today, and can be visited by tourists… A magnificent place with grandiose architecture!

History of the Black Abbey

An abbey confiscated in the time of Elizabeth I

The Black Abbey is said to have been named after the Dominicans, who were once known as “the black friars” because of the black coats they wore at the time. Built in 1225, the abbey has changed very little architecturally. It wasn’t until the 15th century that Elizabeth I, a deeply Protestant queen, confiscated the abbey. On the death of the sovereign, the new King James I decided to turn it into a palace of justice, driving the Dominicans out of their lodgings.

From 1642 to 1649, the Black Abbey played an important role in hosting the government known as the Irish Catholic Confederation. Oliver Cromwell’s army laid siege to Kilkenny and the abbey in March 1650, until their abdication, with terrible loss of life.

It wasn’t until 1816 that the abbey was restored as a Dominican priory. Since then, the abbey has been back in operation…

Visit the Black Abbey

An abbey in the heart of Kilkenny

The abbey is open to visitors, provided they are discreet and avoid taking photos. Here you can admire imposing architecture in dark grey stone. Its nave, although busy, has a very busy Anglo-Norman style.

Don’t miss the abbey’s large stained glass window, known as the “Rosary Window”: the largest stained glass window ever designed in Ireland! Composed of large vertical panels, it is said to have been made in 1892 by Mayers of Munich, and depicts the Mysteries of the Rosary. The play of light is incredible!