This Franciscan third order monastery was one of the last to be established in Ireland before King Henry VIII destroyed all monasteries across Ireland and England. It was in use until the 17th century, when the Cromwellian army forced the Franciscans to depart.
The chapel, cloister, and residential structures are among the ruins of this sprawling friary. The tower, which rises above the church, was transformed into residential quarters in the 17th century after serving as a bell-tower. The church had a thatched roof at one time in its later history. There is also a cloister with fascinating stone sculptures, one of which depicts Saint Francis of Assisi preaching to birds. The nave, choir, tower, and transept have all been carefully maintained, and the structure is currently designated as a national monument.
