Kells

Saint Patrick`s Church was built in 1896, designed by J.F. Fuller, an authority on the Hiberno-Romanesque style

In 1862 the London-trained Fuller had answered an advertisement for a district architect under the Irish Ecclesiastical Commissioners; he was chosen from among 97 candidates: St. Patrick`s is one of his finest creations.

In the ninth century, Kells was known as ‘Áinius Érenn’ or ‘The splendour of Ireland’.

The town will be forever associated with the illuminated gospels that originated here over 1200 years ago. Even then, Kells was a renowned centre of learning and enlightenment thanks to the influence of St Colmcille who founded a monastic settlement here in the sixth century.

The heritage town of Kells contains many fine examples of early medieval Christian architecture.

Volunteers will take you on a free walking tour of their town. From the early medieval monastic site to the Georgian quarter, our volunteers will share with you the local stories and hidden gems of Kells, Co. Meath. Book your tour at Kells Courthouse Tourism and Cultural Hub.

Kells is synonymous with early Christian architecture and it remains one of Ireland's greatest monastic settlements. Before the arrival of Christianity Ceanannas Mór, the Irish for Kells, meaning “great residence,” was a royal residence, likely on the nearby Hill of Lloyd, much like the famous Hill of Tara. It was't until the 6th century that Kells came to prominence as a monastic settlement. St. Colmcille or Columba was granted Kells by the then High King, Diarmuid MacCarroll, of the Uí Neill.

Limited Access

Access to outside spaces only. Please do not climb on Cairn T.

Due to ongoing conservation works access to the interior of Cairn T is not possible at present. The rest of the monuments on the hill are not affected by this necessary work.
OPW regret any inconvenience caused.

In the summer months tour guides are on site to answer questions: please see website for times and details.

The grandest concentration of Neolithic passage tombs in Ireland can be found at Loughcrew. Local folklore maintains that the site is the work of the “monster woman” who once ruled the area. Loughcrew`s name in Irish is Sliabh na Callaí meaning “Hill of the Witch” or “Hags Hill.” The name of the ancient hag was Garavogue, known locally as An Cailleach Bhéara. This witch or hag may have had her origins in the Celtic goddess Buí, whom we encounter at Knowth in Brú na Bóinne. She was a Moon Goddess or Earth Mother.

(Nobber mediveal church ruin and modern Church of Ireland church, now George Eogan Cultural and Heritage Centre: Photo, Henry Cruise)

Nobber: from the prehsitoric to the present day

The town of Nobber and its surrounds is an ancient settlement that can trace its roots back to Mesolithic Ireland, c.6,000 BC. The name Nobber come from the Irish word “an Obair” ('the work'), which refers to the Norman motte at the north end of the village.