Trip Planner:   Europe  /  Ireland  /  Province of Leinster  /  County Offaly  /  Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise, County Offaly

4.5

#1 of 44 in Things to do in County Offaly

Historic Site Church

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A preserved ruin along the Shannon River set against green and rolling hills, Clonmacnoise offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of the monasteries in Ireland. Founded in 546 CE by Saint Ciarán, the monastery was a center of learning and trade for over 600 years until it began to decline around the 12th century due to a diminishing population. Visit many of the ruined and partially ruined buildings on the site, including temple Finghín and McCarthy's tower, cross of the scriptures, and the cathedral, where the last High King of Ireland is buried. Many kings from Meath, Tara, and Connacht were buried at this site. Explore the visitor center for a comprehensive history of the site. Use our County Offaly trip builder app to add Clonmacnoise and other attractions to your County Offaly vacation plans.

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Clonmacnoise Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

954 reviews

Google

4.5

• By Nadine C

  A ne pas râter, cadre magnifique, spacieux, paisible, belle découverte celtique, avec ce cimetière et ces très belles croix. Exposition intéréssante  more »

  Not to be missed, beautiful, spacious, peaceful, beautiful Celtic discovery, with this cemetery and these beautiful crosses. Interesting exhibition
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• By KellyM304

  Excellent history at his old Christina site. Had a guided tour which was excellent and must needed to get the full understand of the site. Worth a stop if you are in the are  more »

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Google

• By Diane Bradley

  I love this place. Informative museum explains the history and iconography. If you have time walk down to the nun's church past the new cemetery.

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• By Simon Rowe

  Very interesting set off historic buildings. Ended to spending several hours walking around them. Make sure to take the guided tour which explains lots of the context and history of the place

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