Inislounaght Abbey, Cistercian abbey ruins in Marlfield, Ireland
Inislounaght Abbey is a monastic site with medieval stone fragments and remnants integrated into St Patrick's Church of Ireland, built in 1818 with a crenellated tower. The location combines architectural pieces from different periods and displays both religious structures and burial monuments spanning several centuries.
The abbey was founded in 1147 as a daughter house of Mellifont and maintained regional influence until its dissolution in 1540 during the Protestant Reformation. The closure marked a turning point in the monastic history of the region and led to the repurposing of the site.
The graveyard displays carved stones from the 13th century, including chest tombs decorated with saints and Latin inscriptions from the O'Tunney school. These stone carvings show the craft traditions that were practiced in this region for many generations.
The site offers morning visits to examine medieval architectural elements and burial markers from the 17th to 19th centuries. The graveyard is easily accessible and walkable, with open grounds to explore around the church building.
A sandstone head of a woman, likely part of an effigy tomb, shows similarities to sculptures from the 14th century in County Kilkenny. This rare carved piece suggests links to artistic networks that operated across multiple counties.
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