St. Brigid's Church, Holy Island, Co. Clare.

Location – This is a little bit away from the main cluster of churches in its own little enclosure.
OS: R 698 849 (map 58)
Longitude: 8° 26' 56.33" W
Latitude: 52° 54' 50.91" N

Description and History – This little ruin is one of the highlights of the island. The small church is contained within a stone walled enclosure which sits on an earlier earthwork. The arched entrance was built in the 13th century. The church was closed around the same time when the larger St. Mary’s church was built. It was later used for burials. The Romanesque archway is beautiful and covered with zig zag designs although it is quite eroded now. A broken window is located in the opposite wall.

Difficulty – Easy enough, although the ground can get a little boggy.


The church and enclosure as you approach.

The church from the rear.

The beautiful Romanesque doorway.

Wonderful decoration.

This must have been spectacular in its day.