Ardfert cathedral

Ardfert’s St Brendan’s Cathedral is a ruined cathedral located near the town of Ardfert, County Kerry. Built in the 6th century by the Saint Brendan of Clonfert, and destroyed by fire in 1641, the site is fabulous, and bears an authentic, silent soul, carrying a rich and mysterious history!

History of Ardfert cathedral

A group of medieval buildings

The site of the cathedral consists of 3 different churches, all dating from medieval times. Although founded in the 6th century, the site has indeed evolved over time, and has gradually acquired neighboring buildings including :

• a 12th century church (improved in the 15th century)
• a 12th century Na Hoe temple
• and a 15th-century Na Griffin temple

The beauty of the site would have been such that it would have inspired Augustus Pugin to design St Mary’s Cathedral in Killarney.

Visit the Ardfert cathedral

A group of medieval buildings

The Adfert cathedral, and its churches are a real marvel to be admired. Their remarkable architecture makes it a magical place, where the ruins alone bear witness to a dark and mysterious history… The cathedral is essentially Anglo-Norman and Romanesque in style, and still has many intact remains, such as a Romanesque west portal, a 13th century window, as well as ecclesiastical personalities engraved in stone.

The site is fabulous, impressive and well worth a visit. Please note that guided tours are offered on site if you wish to become a scholar on the subject.

So much more to discover...