Trip Planner: Europe / Ireland / Province of Leinster / County Kilkenny / Kilkenny / Black Abbey

Black Abbey, Kilkenny

4.5

Religious Site · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot

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Black Abbey represents a Catholic monastery of the Dominican order built in 1225, and it also serves as the local church of Killkenny. Its name derives from the "black friars," an old English nickname for Dominicans. Join the locals for religious observance, or visit between services to view the building. The old structure impresses with highly detailed stained glass throughout. Brochures describing the history of this important church are available for purchase. Check the mass schedule online before you go; doors may be locked during services. With our custom trip planner, Kilkenny attractions like Black Abbey can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.

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Tours to Black Abbey

FROM $30 BOOK WITH VIATOR Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny Shenanigans Walks - Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny

5.0

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Tours from $30 ›

FROM $13 BOOK WITH VIATOR Walking tour of Kilkenny's must see attractions with a certified guide. . Walking tour of Kilkenny's must see attractions with a certified guide. .

5.0

Duration: 2 hours

Tours from $13 ›

FROM $110 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private walking Tour of Kilkenny with a qualified Tour Guide Private walking Tour of Kilkenny with a qualified Tour Guide

5.0

Duration: 2 hours

Tours from $110 ›

Black Abbey reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

585 reviews

Google

4.6

By HappyHammer69

Great old church, stone walls and the stained glass windows are beautiful. Such a pleasure to see an understated church rather than the over the top European equivalents.

Great old church, stone walls and the stained glass windows are beautiful. Such a pleasure to see an understated church rather than the over the top European equivalents. more »
By BikesStrong

This is a lovely stop on your walk around Kilkenny. The exterior is beautiful as was the interior. There is a donation box just inside - use it!

This is a lovely stop on your walk around Kilkenny. The exterior is beautiful as was the interior. There is a donation box just inside - use it! more »
By holsgirlDublin

Was brought here with Shenanigans Walking tour. The stain glass window is stunning. Inside the abbey is quaint and beautiful Have been to KK many times but never came across this before

Was brought here with Shenanigans Walking tour. The stain glass window is stunning. Inside the abbey is quaint and beautiful Have been to KK many times but never came across this before more »

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Google

By Stephen Williams

Beautiful historic church! Went to Mass there and it was special! Beautiful side altars all around the church.

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By EJB 3

Beautiful abbey that is smaller and quieter than the bigger cathedrals in town, but no less impressive. The stained glass is especially striking and worth a visit for that alone.

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By B 123

Beautiful stain glass and a peaceful and serene experience. Definitely worth stopping in and sitting down for a few minutes of quiet.

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By Lukasz (Luke)

Another gorgeous church down the street from St Marys! I was able to visit the inside and it was beautifully decorated. The stained glass windows were beautifully decorated! Well worth a visit!

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By Corbett Fertig

This abbey is stunning and has been kept in magnificent shape! The stain glass windows are gorgeous with a few almost from the ground to the ceiling - very large. Beautiful stone work, stunning ceilings and archways. It’s such a privilege being able to see such a beautiful abbey in such great shape and very well kept stain glass.

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