A true Irish spot, the small Neo-Gothic Church on the grounds of Kylemore Abbey, in Connemara.

You have to look hard for this special gem on the grounds of Kylemore Abbey in County Galway. Kylemore Abbey, home of the Benedictine Nuns since the 1920’s, is nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic sites. It was built in the 1860's as a country home for Mitchell Henry, the son of a wealthy Manchester merchant. After the sudden death of his wife, Mitchell immediately set about building a cathedral-in-miniature in memory of Margaret. 

You are looking for The Gothic Church!

If you take a long walk down a winding road on the grounds, you will find a hidden but wonderful old Neo-Gothic Church completed in 1881. You feel that you have discovered a hidden secret when you arrive.

Today, you can admire the detailed exterior and interior of this ‘miniature cathedral’ The exterior, built in grey limestone, shows impressive, projecting corner buttresses and angelic gargoyles.  The interior is embellished with stunning sand-colored limestone carvings.  The impressive gothic arches that form the ceiling are supported by a variety of Irish marble columns. In the south transept a beautiful stained glass window depicts the five graces, Fortitude, Faith, Charity, Hope and Chastity.

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