Dry Fork Petroglyphs | Vernal

Information

Landmark: Dry Fork Petroglyphs
City: Vernal
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Dry Fork Petroglyphs, Vernal, USA Utah, North America

Portsmouth Abbey Monastery is a Benedictine monastery located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The monastery complex includes a large, Gothic Revival-style church constructed primarily of granite. The church features a prominent tower, pointed arch windows, and a nave with ribbed vaulting. Adjacent buildings, including the school and residential quarters, are constructed from brick and stone, exhibiting a more utilitarian architectural style.

Location & Access Logistics

The monastery is situated at 280 Cory's Lane in Portsmouth, RI. It is approximately 15 miles east of Providence, accessible via RI-138 East. From Providence, take I-95 South to RI-138 East. Parking is available on-site for visitors. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus route is the RIPTA Route 60, which stops approximately 2 miles from the abbey, requiring a taxi or extended walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Founded in 1914 by monks from St. Louis Abbey, the current church structure was completed in 1960. The site was originally part of a larger estate. The land itself is characterized by rolling hills and coastal proximity, typical of the Rhode Island coastal plain.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can attend daily Mass services in the abbey church. Guided tours of the church and grounds are available by appointment. The abbey also houses a preparatory school, and its grounds offer walking paths.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in designated visitor areas. Limited shade is present on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the main complex. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions or dine in nearby Portsmouth or Newport.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the church's exterior, late afternoon light provides optimal illumination. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the grounds. No specific tide requirements affect access.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is the abbey's role in preserving significant religious artifacts and its contribution to Catholic education in New England. A local anecdote suggests that the original plans for the church were inspired by a medieval cathedral in England.