St Mary’s Abbey

Where now the glories of Babylon? All that remains of what was once Ireland’s wealthiest and most powerful monastery is the chapterhouse, so forgotten that most Dubliners are unaware of its existence. In its medieval day, this Cistercian abbey ran the show when it came to Irish church politics, although its reputation with the authorities was somewhat sullied when it became a favourite meeting place for rebels against the crown. On 11 June 1534, ‘Silken’ Thomas Fitzgerald, the most important of Leinster’s Anglo-Norman lords, entered the chapterhouse and flung his Sword of State on the ground in front of the awaiting King’s Council – a ceremonial two-fingered salute to King Henry VIII and his authority. Visitors today are slightly less dramatic, but they can enjoy a small exhibition and view a model of what the abbey looked like in the good old days. The easiest way to visit is by going to the City Hall on Dame St and joining a free walking tour (10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm Wednesday and Saturday). Otherwise, call to arrange a visit.