Ross Errilly Friary
Explore the Friary of Ross
Widely considered to be the most complete Franciscan monastic ruins in Ireland, Ross Errilly Friary (Irish: Mainistir Ros Oirialaigh) is an impressive structure on the landscape of north Galway, close to the village of Headford. Situated by the Black River, the boundary line between the counties of Galway and Mayo before it reaches Lough Corrib, the monastery, which served as a dwelling for members of franciscan community, has been a prominent feature since the mid 14th century.
The history of the Friary of Ross
Initial records of its presence date from 1469, when owner John Blake left 40 pence to the Ross Errilly Friary as part of his will. Historians deduce that the building was established a decade earlier in 1460.
In later years, the Earls of Clanricarde served as patrons of the monastic site and provided protection to the Franciscans up to the mid 15th century when it was dissolved when Henry VIII disbanded monasteries, friaries and convents throughout Britain and Ireland. Soon after, Queen Elizabeth I gifted Ross Errilly to Richael Burke (the second Earl of Clanricarde), who permitted the friars to resume their order once more.
By 1596 the friars found themselves removed from the site again when the English military took the building during the Nine Years’ War. In this period, the occupying soldiers are believed to have destroyed all records and manuscripts within the friary, causing further loss of historical detail about Ross Errily. Having reoccupied the friary, the Protestant Archbishop of Tuam ordered the capture of the friars while at the same time giving them sufficient time to depart to avoid being arrested.
Over subsequent years, the friars returned again (1611) with the protection of the fourth Earl of Clanricarde and enjoyed a long period of occupancy until 1832 when another provincial order forced their departure for a final time.
A preview of Ross Errily Friary
Visit Ross Errily Friary
Ross Errily is accessible to the public at no cost and is under the management of the Office of Public Works (OPW). Exceptionally preserved, visitors will leave with a lasting impression of how our ancestors lived and give you a sense of admiration for the franciscans who originally made this place their home. The remains of the once remarkable building comprises a well-preserved church, tower, chapels and dwelling.
Ross Errilly Friary Map
Coordinates: N 53° 28′ 46.44″ W 009° 07′ 54.6″
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