One of the best-preserved friaries in Ireland

Askeaton Franciscan Friary was founded in 1389 by Gerald, the 4th Earl of Desmond. Its design is arranged around a central cloister where the monks would walk and pray and although the original bell tower has collapsed there are still excellent examples of carved windows, stone seats, and tombs. There is also an interesting carving of St Francis showing his stigmata that has been kissed so often that it is almost worn away. It was plundered and destroyed in 1579, revived in 1627, and plundered again in 1648 by Cromwellian forces. It was up and running again in 1658 and was finally abandoned in 1714.