St. Mullins Abbey

The following description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Carlow' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1993). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 17 July 2007 National Monument No. 003. Rectangular structure (dims. 23.3m x 7.2m) represented by N, parts of S and E wall of nave and chancel church of uncertain date, modified for domestic and defensive purposes. Original structure divided by chancel arch, chancel interior being slightly narrower than nave. Ogee-headed window in N wall of nave. S wall survives only at W corner, with now broken out spiral stairs in wall thickness leading to upper levels, or to adjacent round tower. Corbels inserted in N and S walls to carry first floor. Chancel remains consist of N wall, with twin-light window, standing to full height and levelled E and S walls. Filling of chancel removed (D c. 2m) to reveal stone altar against E gable, tomb niche with worn thirteenth/fourteenth-century grave slab and piscina. Barrel vault over chancel and spiral stairs in cross wall. (Bradley 1989, 58 (B); JRSAI 1892, 377-88; UJA 1970 68)