This update is part of our Kilkenny Sights & Attractions feature.
Aghaviller Monastic Site
“Aghaviller – from Áth an Biolair (Ford of the Water-cress)
Three monuments, a Round Tower, a church and a holy well, mark the site of this ancient monastic foundation. Only the lower part of the Round Tower – the monastery’s bell tower – survives. The original, round-arched doorway, is placed high above ground level to make the structure more stable. A lintelled doorway has been broken into the bottom of the tower in more recent times. The tower has a square base, an unusual feature, which is only paralleled at nearby Kilree.
The rectangular church dates from at least the 12th century, but it was modified in the 13th century, and in the late 15th century a massive tower was erected over its chancel (the section of the church where the altar was sighted).
The room above the chancel is reached by a long flight of steps and has a fine fireplace. Only foundations survive of the main section of the church or nave where the congregation stood.
The monastery was dedicated to St. Breainn; a holy well nearby is known as Tobar Bhréanainn – St. Brenainn’s Well.” – Dúchas (The Heritage Service)
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