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Muckross Abbey, Killarney

4.7

#3 of 100 in Historic Sites in County Kerry

Religious Site Historic Site

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Located in Killarney National Park, the historical Muckross Abbey is known for its long-standing structure and central courtyard. You'll notice that the abbey, founded in 1448, has been well preserved, although much of it is roofless now. Stroll the courtyard, which is surrounded by a vaulted cloister and features a giant yew tree. Over the years, three Gaelic poets, Geoffrey O'Donoghue, Aodhagan O'Rathaille, and Eoghan Rua O'Suilleabhain, were buried here. Explore the ruins of the site, which were reconstructed several times after attacks. Consider adding a trip to the nearby Muckross House to your itinerary for the day. Add Muckross Abbey to your Killarney travel itinerary, and discover new vacation ideas by using our Killarney itinerary app.

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Muckross Abbey Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

1,402 reviews

Google

4.7

facebook

4.5

507 likes

• By Andrew_Wilson70

  Loved the visit in the day. The place is well maintained and very photogenic. Even went back at night to do some long exposures under the moonlight. I pleasant walk from the road. The Yew tree in the....  more »

• By PeteKatelynNatalie

  We just loved the exploring this beautiful site and imagining the monks praying and working the land. A must see.  more »

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Google

• By Daniel Medders

  This is an amazing old church hidden from the main sites. It does have graves with rich family history. The site faces the lake and feels like a archaeological site. There is a beautiful tree growing in the middle of the building, offering a unique viewpoint. Not as crowded and can ride a bike to this site. Has amazing masonry work, carvings, and writing to explore and photograph. Enjoy

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• By Marc Cartright

  Totally hidden gem here. The abbey sports a giant yew tree in the middle of a central square cloister, and it's awe-inspiring to look at. I feel like it's impossible to not notice the tranquility of the scene. The abbey also has a lot of old nooks and crannies that are great exploring for kids. Our group had a few and we ended up playing a few games of hide and seek there, and it was the most fun I've had playing with kids - there were legitimate hiding places for people of all sizes.

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