Gallen Priory

Gallen Priory is a monastic site with remains of a medieval church in County Offaly, its main features being foundations and sculptured stones. Scattered across the ground are various grave slabs that display patterns and religious symbols from different periods.

The priory was founded in its earliest years and experienced several major attacks by kings of Munster that caused damage. These raids occurred across different centuries and marked difficult phases in the site's history.

The carved grave slabs display cross designs and early Christian symbols that evolved across centuries. These stones show how religious expression changed over time in this part of Ireland.

The site is located near Clonmacnoise and is easy to reach when traveling in the region. The remains are outdoors and can be viewed at any time without needing to enter a building.

Excavations uncovered a 9th-century cross with carefully carved animal motifs that reveal the craftsmanship of the period. This piece offers insight into the skill of the early monks who lived at this location.

Location: County Offaly

Inception: 12 century

GPS coordinates: 53.26262,-7.82322

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:24