Ballintubber Abbey
Mainistir Bhaile an Tobair
Founded in 1216, this abbey has seen Mass celebrated for more than 800 years without interruption and is known as the 'Abbey That Would Not Die.'
The abbey was founded by the King of Connacht. It survived the confiscation of church property during the Reformation and destruction by Cromwell's army, and at one point its roof collapsed. Yet the faithful kept holding Mass there, and after restoration in the 20th century it reopened. Visitors can see medieval stone carvings, the cloister ruins and a meditation path through the garden. It is also a popular wedding venue. The abbey is about a 25-minute drive from Westport and can be combined with a visit to the Irish National Museum of Country Life on the same day.
Opening hours
About 09:00 until sunset
Nearby sights
- National Museum of Ireland – Country Life
- Westport Town
- Westport House
- National Famine Memorial & Murrisk Abbey
- Knock Shrine
- Croagh Patrick
- Great Western Greenway
- Doolough Valley