Boyle Abbey
Opening Hours:
April - 31st October 10.00 - 18:00
Tel: 00 353 ( 71) 96 62604
www.heritageireland.ie/en/West/BoyleAbbey

Located in Boyle town on the N4, stand the magnificent restored ruins of the Cistercian Abbey founded in 1161 by Maurice O’Duffy. The Abbey Church was consecrated in 1220. It is of Romanesque and Gothic design and despite being plundered on a number of occasions, its architectural splendour makes it one of the finest remaining examples of Medieval art.

The Abbey is the daughter house of Mellifont, Co. Louth. Despite many mutilations due to several wars, it is still regarded as the finest of the Cistercian churches to survive in Ireland with the majesty of the south arcade unparalleled elsewhere in the country.

An impressive and well preserved Cistercian Monastery which was founded in the 12th century under the patronage of the local ruling family, the MacDermotts. Though mutilated during the 17th and 18th centuries when it was used to accommodate a military garrison, Boyle Abbey nevertheless retains its ability to impress the visitor as one of the most formidable of the early Cistercian foundations in Ireland. A restored gatehouse of 16th / 17th century houses an exhibition. Restricted access for people with disabilities. Conducted tours of the Abbey and grounds are available.

The building had been restored with care by the Office of Public Works.