Clonmacnoise is a ruined monastery situated in County Offaly, Ireland on the River Shannon south of Athlone. Founded in 544 by Saint Ciar\u00e1n, a young man from Rathcroghan, County Roscommon. Until the 9th century it had close associations with the kings of Connacht. St Ciar\u00e1n founded his monastery on the banks of the River Shannon in the 6th Century. The monastery flourished and became a great seat of learning, a University of its time with students from all over Europe. The ruins include a Cathedral, two round Towers, three high crosses, nine Churches and over 700 Early Christian grave slabs. The original high crosses, including the magnificent 10th century Cross of the Scriptures area on display in a purpose built visitor centre adjacent the monastic enclosure. An audiovisual presentation will give an insight into the history of this hallowed space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/heritageireland.ie\/places-to-visit\/clonmacnoise\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n General inquiries: clonmacnoise@opw.ie<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n