https://cuilcaghlakelands.org/geosite/devenish-island/
The early Christian Monastery and round tower at Devenish is one of Ireland’s most iconic historical sites. The monastery is situated on an island, making for an almost fairytale-like experience, when visiting. Take the ferry or water bus across the beautiful Lough Erne, and soak up the beautiful sights and magnificent history at this wonderful display of Irish history.
Facilities: Toilets and an extensive exhibition area.
Devenish Island
The monastery is located on an island on Lower Lough Erne and is open to boat owners or can be reached by ferry or water bus. Directions to Trory Point – Take the A32 (Irvinestown Road) from Enniskillen towards Irvinestown for approximately 2 miles until you reach a roundabout. Just before the roundabout take a left turn adjacent to the filling station parking area onto a minor road. Proceed along this road for 3/4 miles. Take the left fork in the road, where you will see the jetty on the right adjacent to car parking facilities.
Devenish Monastic Site was founded in the 6th Century by Saint Molaise on one of Lough Erne’s many islands. During its history it has been raided by Vikings (837AD), burned (1157AD) and flourished (Middle Ages) as a parish church site and St Mary’s Augustine Priory.
There are ruins from different time periods on site; the earliest being St Molaise house (small church) and the round tower which are 12th Century. A second church from the 13th Century, which was extended over time, was the lower church. St Mary’s Augustinian Priory on the hilltop has been dated from the middle 15th Century to early 16th Century with a church, tower and small cloister. In the graveyard stands a distinctive, unusual, intricately carved stone cross from the 15th Century.
Visitors have described the site as “Mystical” and “Extremely impressive”, with many of the island’s guests noting how magnificent the high stone cross is. A wonderful spot to learn, explore and share.
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Distances are from Devenish Island
This is a cooperation project between Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and Cavan County Council.
This element of the project is part funded under Priority 6 (LEADER) of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the European Union. We would like to acknowledge the assistance of County Cavan Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), Cavan County Council, Breffni Integrated CLG, Department of Rural and Community Development, the EU and EAFRD in part-funding this project. Funded by the Irish Government Under the Leader Programme 2014-2020.
