Holycross abbey was founded in 1168 by the king of Munster. Located in the pretty village of Holycross, this restored Cistercian abbey was a place of medieval pilgrimage where you can walk in the footsteps of the ancient Monks.
Discover the rich, colourful past of Holycross Abbey, one of Ireland’s National Monuments. It takes its name from a relic of the True Cross or Holy Rood, a fragment of which was brought to Ireland by Queen Isabella of Angoulême around 1233.
Holycross Abbey Guided Tours
Take a guided tour and hear the story of this incredible place from local guides, admire Cistercian art including the Sedilia and the Waking Bier and look out for Michael, said to be the oldest church bell in Ireland. Wander around the Padre Pio meditation garden, view the True Cross, share a secret at the whispering arch and see the only intact medieval chapter house doorway in Ireland.
Holycross Abbey Reconstruction
Reconstruction work on the Abbey began in the 1970s, the eventual goal being to re-establish the church as a fully operational place of worship. This goal was achieved in October 1975 when a celebration of restoration was held in the Abbey, marking the building’s rebirth as the parish church of Holycross. The 1970s also saw the return of the artefact that had first made the monastery famous, the Relic of the Cross, granted to the Abbey from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Stop off
Stop off in picturesque Holycross village with its cluster of thatched cottages and vibrant flowers. Get a sense of the history of this sacred place, a destination of pilgrimage for people all over the world and relax by the river Suir.
Parking
There is parking on site.
Location
E41 PH01
Distance
Only 45 minutes from Corderry Farm
Top Tips
Why not visit Holycross Abbey and the Rock of Cashel on the same day as they are only 14km apart.
