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Sligo Abbey
Sligo Town, Co. Sligo
Family friendly
Cloudy days
This Sligo Town landmark was founded in 1252/3 and contains a great wealth of carvings including Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculptures and the only sculptured 15th Century high altar to survive in any Irish monastic church.

This Dominican abbey survives from medieval days. It was built by Maurice Fitzgerald for the Dominicans in 1252 and was accidentally burnt down in 1414, when a candle left carelessly in the building set it on fire. 'The Abbey', as it is known locally, was further damaged during the 1641 rebellion.

Legend says that worshippers saved the abbey's silver bell which was thrown into Lough Gill and only those free from sin can hear it peal. The site contains a great wealth of carvings including Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculpture, well preserved cloisters and the only sculptured 15th Century high altar to survive in any Irish monastic church.

Access to site through visitor centre. Restricted access to site for visitors with disabilities.

Tips from locals

Admission is free on the first Wednesday of every month when the Abbey is open.

Contact details
Abbey St, Abbeyquarter North, Sligo, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 1.5 hours here.

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