Jerpoint Abbey

Jerpoint Abbey

Jerpoint Abbey is located near Thomastown in County Kilkenny, Ireland. It is the ruins of a Cistercian abbey established in the latter half of the 12th century. Today, the abbey ruins have been listed on the Record of Monuments and Places of Ireland and feature a visitor center with exhibitions.

Jerpoint Abbey was founded in 1180 and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The abbey once flourished in history but was dissolved under the orders of Henry VIII, losing its former prosperity. Today, Jerpoint Abbey is a charming set of Cistercian abbey ruins. The church itself is well-preserved, featuring exquisitely intricate medieval structures, with its Irish Romanesque cruciform transepts dating back to the 13th century. The 15th-century cloisters are not as well preserved as the earlier sections, but they remain a highlight. The stone carvings on the cloister pillars—featuring knights, bishops, graceful ladies, and dragons—are both delightful and steeped in historical charm.

Jerpoint Abbey

Why go: One of the most impressive Cistercian abbey ruins in County Kilkenny

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Ireland[Ireland]

Province/State: County Kilkenny [County Kilkenny]