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In Ireland, High Crosses began as a form of artistic worship that became popular in the early years of Irish Christianity, carrying onward into medieval times where they were often placed at monasteries. The early styles were made with…

St. Mochua, who is said to have died in 657, began the monastic community at Timahoe. The 96 foot high round tower is the only surviving evidence of any religious community that operated on the site. It dates back…

The village of Mountmellick is located on the Owenass River. Historically, it was an important centre for woolen mills and sugar beet processing.
But Mountmellick is probably most well known for its lace, and its distinct style of…

Built in 1480 by the MacGillpatricks (Fitzpatricks) of Ossory, the castle was conveniently located on the Bealach Mor, or the road to Munster. It was attacked by the Cromwellians and severely ravaged in 1647.
Ownership of Ballaghmore Castle…

The largest town and county seat of County Laois, Portlaoise was formerly called Fort of Maryborough, and founded in 1556 by Queen Mary. The town’s name was officially changed to Portlaoise, which in Gaelic means “Fort of Laois,” in…

Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, this Cistercian Abbey was founded by the King of Meath, Murchadh O’ Nelaghin, in 1150. Before removal to Dublin, Hugh de Lacy’s remains were interred here in 1195. Bective Abbey was important because the…

King John, an Anglo-Norman, officially established the town of Drogheda in 1194 but the actual history of inhabitation extends back to the times when the Celts first arrived.
Drogheda was the scene of several important historical events, such…

This cluster of ancient tombs survives from 3000 B.C. The cairns are called passage tombs, a type commonly erected in the Neolithic Era. They cover three adjacent hilltops, sometimes called the “Hills of the Witch”.
Tomb T is…

The diocese of Trim was comparatively small, and the Bishop of Trim often also served as the Abbott of St. Mary’s. The abbey itself was built in 1368 and operated by the Augustinians. During medieval times, pilgrims traveled here…

More than merely noticeable upon entering the town, Trim Castle truly dominates the surrounding landscape. Perched atop a hill on a 2½-acre site, it overlooks the River Boyne. Erected by Hugh de Lacy in 1173, it is the largest…