St. Kierans Monastery (Site of) — Errill

Marked 'Friary' on the 1841 edition of the OS 6-inch map. Said to have been founded by St Kieran (Carrigan 1905, vol. 2, 346-347). Only some pieces of masonry remain within a square-shaped enclosure (dims. c. 54m sq.) defined by a scarp (H 1-1.5m). Possible entrance at SE. Some stone is evident in the enclosure. No other visible surface remains. Medieval church (LA027-024) c. 220m to SE. Described by Carrigan as 'When St. Kieran took his departure from Fertagh, he turned his face northwards and coming to Errill, remained here for some time. The monastery of Errill, which he is traditionally said to have founded during his stay, was situated in a field called the Bawn, mid-way between Errill village and Errill National School. The site is marked by a slightly elevated square of grassy land, level at top, and about a quarter of an Irish acre in area. Even the foundations of the monastic buildings have disappeared. The enclosing wall strongly and firmly built of stones and grouting, has also dispappeared, save at the four angles where some pieces still remains. Underneath the mound there is a vault or chmaber, admission to which is through an opening, now filled up, in the east side of the south-east angle.' (Carrigan 1905, vol. 2, 346-47). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007