Kildermot Abbey Explained

Kildermot Abbey
Other Names:Kildermot Church, Kildermott Abbey
Native Name:Cill Diarmada
Native Name Lang:ga
Order:Premonstratensians (Norbertines)
Established:13th century
Diocese:Achonry
Status:ruined
Style:Norman
Location:Kildermot, Attymass, County Mayo
Coordinates:54.0584°N -9.0902°W
Map Type:Ireland
Public Access:yes
Remains:church
Heritage Designation:
Designation1:National Monument of Ireland
Designation1 Number:402
Designation1 Offname:Kildermot Church

Kildermot Abbey is a former Premonstratensian Priory and National Monument located in County Mayo, Ireland.[1]

Location

Kildermot Abbey is located on the west bank of Ballymore Lough, 1 km northwest of Attymass.[2] [3]

History

Kildermot Abbey was founded Premonstratensian Canons (Norbertines), who were already established in the area at this time.

It is possible the Abbey and its townland are now known as Kildermot due to patronage by the Mac Diarmada; no connection to any St Dermot can be claimed.

The Abbey was partially destroyed after the Penal Laws of 1697.

Two holy water fonts from the Abbey were recovered from the lake by a Mr. Thomas Gallagher. One has been returned to the Abbey, while the other is in the National Museum of Ireland.

Kildermot Abbey became a National Monument in 1939.

Dawn Mass is celebrated annually at the ruins on Easter Sunday.[4]

Building

The church's west gable is pulled down, but the foundation is still traceable. Its side walls and east gable remain.

In this gable is a lancet window, widened inside and arched above, fashioned of rudely cut stones. The whole church measures 5.5x.[5]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Attymass Parish « Father Peyton Center. Fatherpeytoncentre.ie.
  2. Web site: Connaught Telegraph - Attymass celebrates missionary work of saint patrick. Con-telegraph.ie.
  3. Web site: The Grid West Project : First Report. PDF. Eirgridgroup.com. 26 December 2018.
  4. Web site: History created on Easter Sunday at Mayo Abbey - Manchester Irish Festival. Manchesteririshfestival.co.uk.
  5. Web site: Mayo Paradise Possible - Western Ireland > Mayo > Resources > Kildermott Abbey. Paradisepossible.ie.