Religious house

In 1488 the Dominicans were granted licence to build a friary (GA094-091----) on the site of the Chapel of St Mary on the Hill (GA094-091002-). Exact foundation date unclear (pers. comm. P. Walsh) but construction of a choir and windows is mentioned in 1493 and work was still in progress in 1508. The scale or layout of the buildings is unknown. Described as 'lately dissolved' in 1570 but was subsequently re-established. Converted into an artillery battery (GA094-091003-) in 1642 and razed in 1652 to prevent Cromwellian occupation (Cooke 1895, 295). The present Dominican church, on or close to the site, dates from 1891. (Gwynn and Hadcock 1970, 225; Hardiman 1820, 270-1) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Galway Vol. I - West Galway'. Compiled by Paul Gosling (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1993). Date of upload: 05 August 2010

The Dominican friars established a friary in Townparks (Galway Borough, Rahoon Parish) in the late 15th century, granted licence in 1488 to build on the site of the earlier Chapel of St Mary on the Hill. The site reflects the medieval Catholic religious presence in the area and the expansion of mendicant orders in Ireland during this period.