Murrisk Priory, Medieval monastery ruins in County Mayo, Ireland
Murrisk Priory is a monastery ruin located at the base of Croagh Patrick mountain in County Mayo, featuring remaining walls and structural elements from its original medieval construction. The site preserves the ground plan of the main buildings, allowing visitors to walk through the layout and understand how the community once lived.
The priory was founded in 1401 by the Augustinian order and served as a religious center until its decline during the Protestant Reformation period. The site experienced significant changes as religious institutions lost power and influence over the following centuries.
The grounds connect to the National Famine Memorial, marking a location where crowds gathered during the years of widespread food shortage and hardship in the 1840s.
The ruins are freely accessible year-round without entry fees, making them easy to explore at your own pace. Parking is available near the Croagh Patrick visitor center, which sits close to the site and serves as a helpful reference point for navigation.
The priory walls contain carved stone window frames and door elements that show medieval Irish building craftsmanship. These details offer a rare look at the skilled techniques that Irish stonemasons used during this period.
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