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Monastery · Sligo, Sligo
Sligo Abbey
Ruins of the Dominican convent founded in 1252 in central Sligo, with the cloister, the carved 15th-century high altar and stone tombs—the only examples of this kind preserved in Ireland.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Sligo Abbey
Sligo Abbey was founded in 1252 by Maurice Fitzgerald, Baron of Offaly, for the Dominican friars, on the banks of the Garavogue River in what later became the town of Sligo. It was destroyed by fire in 1414 and rebuilt, and was damaged again in the 17th‑century wars. The friars did not leave the site until the 18th century.
The complex includes the roofless nave and chancel of the church, with the eastern Gothic window, the tower and the cloister, featuring carved stone arches—one of the most complete medieval convent cloisters in Ireland. The 15th‑century stone high altar with carved panels is the only medieval altar of this type preserved in its original church in the country.
There are tombs and gravestones on the walls and floor from the 15th to the 17th centuries, such as the O'Connor Sligo monument of 1624, showing the chieftain and his wife kneeling. The convent appears in a story by Yeats, who knew the town well.
Sligo Abbey is cared for by the state heritage body and opens in season, with guided tours. It is a few minutes' walk from the town centre.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In season, generally from spring to autumn, when it opens for guided tours. Check the times on the website.
How to get there
It is on Abbey Street in central Sligo, a 5‑minute walk from Hyde Bridge and about 10 minutes from the train station.
Tip
Ask the guide to show you the carved high altar and the O'Connor Sligo monument. Walk around the cloister to see the stone arches up close.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sligo Abbey
Does Sligo Abbey open year-round?
No. It usually opens in season, generally from spring to autumn. Check times on the heritage body's website.
What is there to see in the convent?
The cloister, the 15th‑century stone high altar, the Gothic window and the tombs, such as the O'Connor Sligo monument.
Is it in the centre?
Yes, on Abbey Street, a few minutes' walk from Sligo's main streets.