Black Abbey, Kilkenny (must see)
The medieval Black Abbey, situated on Abbey Street just beyond Black Freren Gate, stands as a testament to Kilkenny's rich history and religious heritage. Established in 1225, this venerable church was a place of worship for Christians belonging to the Dominican Order, often referred to as the Blackfriars due to their distinctive black cloaks.
While the centuries have taken their toll, portions of the original church still stand, welcoming visitors to explore the remnants of this historic structure. The surviving elements include the nave, the 14th-century south transept, and the impressive 15th-century tower, each bearing witness to the architectural and spiritual legacy of the Dominican community.
The Black Abbey's interior is adorned with noteworthy features that capture the essence of medieval craftsmanship and devotion. Among these treasures is a medieval alabaster carving depicting the Trinity, a poignant representation of religious themes. Additionally, a crudely carved oak figure of Saint Dominic adds a touch of rustic authenticity to the sacred space.
One of the most striking aspects of the Black Abbey is its magnificent stained-glass windows. These expansive windows, almost reaching from floor to ceiling, bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe. The intricate designs and vibrant hues of the stained glass contribute to the spiritual ambiance of the church.
While the centuries have taken their toll, portions of the original church still stand, welcoming visitors to explore the remnants of this historic structure. The surviving elements include the nave, the 14th-century south transept, and the impressive 15th-century tower, each bearing witness to the architectural and spiritual legacy of the Dominican community.
The Black Abbey's interior is adorned with noteworthy features that capture the essence of medieval craftsmanship and devotion. Among these treasures is a medieval alabaster carving depicting the Trinity, a poignant representation of religious themes. Additionally, a crudely carved oak figure of Saint Dominic adds a touch of rustic authenticity to the sacred space.
One of the most striking aspects of the Black Abbey is its magnificent stained-glass windows. These expansive windows, almost reaching from floor to ceiling, bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe. The intricate designs and vibrant hues of the stained glass contribute to the spiritual ambiance of the church.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kilkenny. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Black Abbey on Map
Sight Name: Black Abbey
Sight Location: Kilkenny, Ireland (See walking tours in Kilkenny)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Kilkenny, Ireland (See walking tours in Kilkenny)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Kilkenny, Ireland
Create Your Own Walk in Kilkenny
Creating your own self-guided walk in Kilkenny is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Kilkenny Introduction Walking Tour
Situated some 90 minutes away from busy Dublin, the sleepy town of Kilkenny rests gracefully along the banks of the River Nore in the southeastern part of Ireland, exuding an ambiance of old-world charm.
The town's name is the anglicized version of the Irish "Cill Chainnigh," which means "Church of Canice." It pays homage to Saint Canice, an Ulsterman, a revered figure... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles
The town's name is the anglicized version of the Irish "Cill Chainnigh," which means "Church of Canice." It pays homage to Saint Canice, an Ulsterman, a revered figure... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.4 Km or 1.5 Miles