Athy Priory
Friary in Athy, Ireland
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Athy Priory is a former friary of the Dominican Order located in Athy, Ireland.[1]
Mainistir Átha Í | |
  Location within Ireland | |
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Bailr-atha-ai; Athai; Athies |
| Order | Dominican Order |
| Established | 1253 |
| Disestablished | mid-19th century |
| Diocese | Dublin |
| People | |
| Founders | Boysel and Hogan family |
| Architecture | |
| Status | ruined |
| Style | Norman |
| Site | |
| Location | St Michael's, Athy, County Kildare |
| Coordinates | 52.990694°N 6.983284°W |
| Public access | yes |
Location
Athy Priory is located in the south of the town, on the east bank of the River Barrow.[2]
History
Athy Priory was founded by the Boiseles (Boysel) and Hogans in 1253, although some sources give the date as 1257.[3][4] John of Slane gave them six acres, and Edward II consented to this grant. In 1288, 1295 and 1305, chapters of the order were held at Athy.[5]
The priory was dissolved 30 April 1539 and rented to Martin Pelles, constable of Athy, on 26 April 1540. At that time, the priory owned two fishing-weirs, a water mill, while the buildings were a church and belfry, chapter-house, dormitory, hall, three chambers and a kitchen, a cemetery, garden and orchard.[6] In 1588 the priory was granted to Henry FitzGerald, 12th Earl of Kildare.
Athy was refounded c.1622 by Fr Ross Mageoghegan. Friars also returned in 1754.[7]
The chapel was enlarged 1864-7 but the priory was dissolved mid-19th century.[8]
A new church was built and opened 17 March 1965. The old church was demolished in 1973. A library was later built on the site.[9]