Ennis Friary | Clare

Ennis Friary is a historic Franciscan monastery located in the town of Ennis, the county town of County Clare in the West of Ireland. It was founded in 1240 by the O'Brien clan, who were the rulers of the region at the time, and is one of the most significant historical and architectural landmarks in Ennis.

1. Historical Background

• Foundation: Ennis Friary was established by the Franciscans, a religious order founded by St. Francis of Assisi in the early 13th century. The friary was originally founded as a place of worship and education, and it played a key role in the religious and cultural life of the region.
• Monastic Life: During its peak, Ennis Friary was an important center of learning and religious practice. Like other Franciscan friaries, it provided education for young men, particularly in theology and philosophy, and was involved in charitable works for the local community. The friars followed the Rule of St. Francis, which emphasized poverty, humility, and service to others.
• Decline: The friary began to decline in the 17th century, especially after the English Reformation and the suppression of monasteries under Henry VIII. The friars were forced to leave during this period, and the building fell into disrepair. It was not until the 19th century that efforts were made to preserve and restore the friary.
• Restoration: In the 19th century, the friary was restored and has since been partially rebuilt. Today, it stands as an important monument to the region's medieval history.

2. Architectural Features

Ennis Friary is a striking example of medieval Franciscan architecture. Some of its most notable architectural features include:

• Gothic Design: The friary is primarily built in the Gothic architectural style, with tall pointed arches, flying buttresses, and ribbed vaults. The building's design reflects the religious and artistic ideals of the period, with an emphasis on height, light, and spiritual grandeur.
• Church Layout: The friary consists of a church, cloisters, and a number of monastic buildings. The church was used for religious services, while the cloisters served as a place for the friars to meditate and carry out their daily activities. The friary also had living quarters, a refectory, and a chapter house where the friars would meet.
• The Cloister: One of the most striking features of the friary is its cloister, a covered walkway that runs around a central courtyard. This area was used by the friars for prayer, reflection, and contemplation.
• Stained Glass Windows: Ennis Friary is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, which date from the medieval period. The windows depict various religious scenes and figures, including the life of St. Francis and the Passion of Christ. These windows are an important aspect of the friary’s artistic heritage and provide a glimpse into the spiritual world of the medieval friars.
• Carved Stonework: The friary also features intricate stone carvings, including decorative capitals (the top parts of columns) and medieval inscriptions. Many of these carvings depict scenes from the Bible, as well as religious symbols, such as angels and saints.
• Ruinous Sections: Some parts of the friary are in a state of ruin, but this only adds to the historic charm of the site. Visitors can explore the remains of the aisles and sanctuary and appreciate the scale and layout of the original structure.

3. Notable Features and Attractions

Ennis Friary is a fascinating site with several key features that attract visitors:

• The High Altar: The high altar is one of the most important features of the friary church. It is an impressive structure, designed to elevate the religious ceremonies that took place in the church. The altar is surrounded by medieval frescoes and carvings, which are significant examples of the religious art of the time.
• Frescoes and Wall Paintings: One of the highlights of Ennis Friary is its medieval frescoes, some of which are still visible on the walls of the church. These wall paintings are among the best-preserved examples of medieval Irish religious art. The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible, including the Crucifixion, the Last Supper, and the Judgment Day. The bright colors and intricate details make them an important aspect of the friary’s historical and artistic value.
• The Monastic Cloisters: Visitors can explore the cloisters, a peaceful area that surrounds the friary. The cloisters are lined with columns and arches, and they provide a quiet space for reflection, offering stunning views of the surrounding town and countryside.
• Graveyard: The friary is also home to an old graveyard, where many prominent figures from the town of Ennis and the surrounding region are buried. This includes some of the O’Brien clan, who were instrumental in the friary’s foundation. The graveyard adds a sense of reverence and history to the site.

4. The Franciscan Legacy

• Religious Heritage: As a Franciscan friary, Ennis Friary reflects the religious and spiritual heritage of the Franciscan Order. The Franciscan friars were known for their dedication to poverty, humility, and service to the poor. The friary was a place where these ideals were practiced, and visitors can learn about the history of the Franciscan movement and its impact on Ireland.
• Community and Education: The friary also played an important role in the education and religious life of the region. The friars were involved in teaching, not only in religious matters but also in other fields such as medicine and philosophy. The friary was a place where the community gathered for Mass, prayer, and other religious ceremonies.

5. Visiting Ennis Friary

Today, Ennis Friary is open to the public and is one of the town’s key tourist attractions. It offers a peaceful and historical space for visitors to explore, and it is an important site for understanding the religious and cultural history of County Clare.

• Location: Ennis Friary is located in the heart of Ennis town, easily accessible for visitors exploring the area. The friary is situated near the town center, making it a convenient stop for those visiting Ennis.
• Visitor Information: The friary is managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), and visitors can take a self-guided tour or participate in guided tours to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
• Opening Hours: The friary is typically open to visitors throughout the year, though opening hours may vary seasonally. It’s a good idea to check for updates on opening times before visiting.
• Admission: There is usually a small fee for admission to the friary, and this helps fund its upkeep and preservation.

6. Conclusion

Ennis Friary is a remarkable historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the medieval religious and cultural life of Ireland. From its Gothic architecture to its medieval frescoes and Franciscan legacy, the friary is a testament to the enduring importance of faith, education, and community in Ireland’s history. Whether you’re interested in Irish history, architecture, or religious heritage, Ennis Friary is a must-visit landmark in County Clare.