Abbeydorney Abbey, Medieval Cistercian abbey ruins in County Kerry, Ireland
Abbeydorney Abbey is a medieval Cistercian monastery in County Kerry featuring stone walls, arches, and a 15th-century church with a west tower. The remaining structures display the typical layout of a monastic complex, with the tower standing as the most visible architectural element at the site.
The monastery was founded in 1154 as a daughter house of Monasteranenagh Abbey under O Torna chieftain patronage. It remained in religious use until its dissolution in 1537, marking the end of monastic activity at the site.
The name Kyrie Eleison, meaning 'Lord Have Mercy' in Greek, reflects the spiritual purpose that the Cistercian monks brought to this place. They shaped the region's farming practices through their knowledge and work with the land.
The site serves as an active cemetery and remains open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the medieval structures on the grounds. Comfortable walking shoes are helpful since the site is open and exposed, with limited facilities available.
Christian O'Conarchy, the first abbot of Mellifont Abbey, selected this location for his final years and was buried here in 1186. This connection links the site to one of Ireland's most important monastic communities of that time.
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