churches historical limerick city

The village of Hospital has it’s origins in a Commandery of the Knights Hospitallers founded in 1215. And the origin of this church as the church of that Commandery is immediately seen from the three effigies of knights. A grotto now occupies the top floor, which was originally part of the living quarters....

This small church boasts a well-preserved Romanesque doorway dating from the 12th century. Much of it from the 15th century. It was already in ruins by 1657....

The monastery at this site is believed to have been founded by the great reformer Oenghus the Culdee (815AD). The present church on the sight dates back to the 15th or 16th century, and incorporates part of an older church, with later renovations occurring throughout history. Excavations of the near-by 65-foot Round Tower found human bones and a solid clay floor....

There was a church at this site since at least 1209, but the current one is barely earlier than 15th century. The East window is divided into three panes, and then the middle one divided again in the same manner, which is probably the most unusual feature of the building....

This 15th century church is very well preserved. The belfry is very like a turret, and this combines with its narrow windows to give it a curious fortified look....

It is often said that this is the earliest surviving church in Co. Limerick, and indeed it is probably earlier that 12th Century. Much of the west gable has been reconstructed. Unfortunately nothing is known of the church’s history....

This Augustinian convent dates from the 13th century and is one of the few medieval convents remaining. There is a cloister with a refectory along its south wall and a church projecting from its east side. A window to the east and door to the north were inserted in the 15th century, the latter presumably to offer access directly to the church. To the south of the church is a room called ‘The Black Hag’s Cell’ where it is said that the last abbess practiced witchcraft; a legend perhaps dating fro...