Augustinian Priory (St Nicholas' / Black Abbey)
About
The Augustinian Priory, founded in 1315 or 1316 and long known locally as the Black Abbey, is the third of Adare's medieval religious houses and today serves as the Church of Ireland parish church, dedicated to St Nicholas. Like Holy Trinity it is a working church rather than a ruin, so it is visitable, with its medieval cloister and fabric preserved in continued use. It stands at the northern end of the village near the bridge over the Maigue, completing the short medieval ruins loop that is one of the best reasons to linger in Adare beyond the thatched street.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓A 1315-16 Augustinian priory, long called the Black Abbey
- ✓Now the Church of Ireland parish church of St Nicholas, so visitable
- ✓A preserved medieval cloister in continued use
- ✓Completes the short medieval ruins loop near the Maigue bridge
Tips
- →A working church; visit respectfully and check for services.
- →The third of the village's three medieval religious houses.
- →Near the bridge over the River Maigue at the north end of the village.
Best Season
More Heritage Activities
Activity
The Thatched Cottages of Main Street
The Thatched Cottages of Main Street
The short, concentrated row of 1820s-30s estate thatched cottages on Main Street, the village's postcard image. Free and self-guided.
Desmond Castle Guided Tour
A 13th-century Norman castle by the River Maigue, on a guided tour that runs daily June to end September only, with a shuttle from the Heritage Centre.
Franciscan Friary Ruins
A 1464 Franciscan friary ruin by the Maigue, on the Adare Manor golf grounds. Public access is not guaranteed; check locally before visiting.