Templeshankyle (in Ruins)

Reference to church and ancient burial ground (LA023-025001-) here (Comerford 1886, vol. 3, 338). Situated on a ridge. Remains of a nave and chancel church survive, built of roughly coursed limestone, with a narrow slit ope in E gable and doorway in S wall. No other features visible. Described by Comerford as 'The ruins of the old church are still to be seen in the present townland of Boley, surrounded by an ancient burial-ground (LA023-025001-). In the old Taxation of the Diocese of Leighlin the Vicarage of Shankyll (old church) is valued at £3 6s. 8d., one of the most highly valued in the list' (Comerford 1886, vol. 3, 338). 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

A church at Templeshankyle, Boley Lower, was built of roughly coursed limestone and dates to the medieval period; its remains include a nave and chancel, and it is situated on a ridge with an associated ancient burial ground. Its style and dedication are not recorded, but such sites often held local religious and community significance.