Ecclesiastical site in Castledurrow Demesne,durrow Townparks

Not marked on the 1841 or 1906 editions of the OS 6-inch maps. The foundations of what was traditionally known as 'Durrow Monastery', founded by St Fintan, survived until 1835 (Carrigan 1905, vol. 2, 213). No visible surface remains survive. According to Carrigan 'The foundations of what was traditionally known as 'Durrow Monastery', remained till 1835, about 60 yards north-west of the churchyard of Durrow, between the base of the 'Castle Hill' and the small stone bridge crossing the Erkina at this point. The ancient parish church (LA029-045) of Durrow, dedicated to St. Fintan, stood within the present churchyard. No trace of it remains. It must have been taken down close to two centuries ago; for in 1731, its site was occupied by the Protestant parish church of Durrow, which is described as 'new built and decently pewd. And flagged'. This latter church continued in use till between 1792 and 1798, when it was replaced by its present successor ' (Carrigan 1905, vol. 2, 213). 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