Dark Isle

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C.Garner and P.Wright

Quin Friary

August 11, 2001
Near Ennis, County, Ireland

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Quin Friary

Quin Friary was built between 1402 and 1433 when the MacNamara family established the Franciscan Order here. The friary is built over the remains of a square courtyard castle, which was built over the remains of a church.

The site was located on the thoroughfare between Limerick and Galway along with easy access to a river. A church was established here, however, it burned down in 1278. Since this was a strategic location, the Lord of Thomond built a strong castle in 1280 over the top of the church. The castle stood for six years when the Irish destroyed it.

Another church was built upon the ruins of the castle in 1350. The Franciscans arrived and the church was modified and updated to make it into the friary. Henry VIII of England dissolved the church in 1541, however, the friars continued to live a quiet life here. Quin slowly fell into ruins. The last friar of Quin passed away in 1820.

Quin Friary : Cloister
Quin Friary :