Fore Abbey - A Benedictine Priory

A Benedictine Priory

In the 13th century the Hugh de Lacy the Norman and landlord built a Bendictine priory in the valley nearby. Many of the buildings that remain today (in ruins) are from the 15th century and have been restored throughout this century, making Fore Abbey the largest group of 300 Benedictine to have sojourned and remained in Ireland. This priory was dedicated to both St Feichin and St Taurin, the Évreux, Normandy abbot of the parent monastery.

• Its 13th century church still has some docorations and graceful arcaded cloisters.

• Attached to the church are the broken walls of two towers, where the monks once lived.

• Between 771 and 1169 Fore Abbey was burnt 12 times by pillaging invaders, such as the Turgesius lead Vikings.