HOLY CROSS ABBEY
From Atlas and Cyclopedia of Ireland (1900)
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HOLY CROSS ABBEY.—This monastic ruin is considered to rank in popular esteem as one of the first, if not the very first, in Ireland. It is situated on the western bank of the Suir about seven miles north of Cashel. It was founded in 1182 by Donald O'Brien, king of Limerick, for the Cistercian monks; but is said to owe its origin and name to the possession of piece of the True Cross, presented in 1110 by Pope Pascal II. to Murrough O'Brien, monarch of Ireland. It was set in gold and precious stones, and is said to be still in the possession of the Catholic authorities of the place. The Abbey is appropriately built in the form of a cross, with nave, chancel and transept, and a lofty, square belfry at the intersection of the cross. In both transepts are two distinct chapels beautifully groined. It was endowed with special privileges, and the abbot was a peer of parliament with the title of Earl of the Holy Cross.
Holy Cross Abbey
Description of County Tipperary | Cashel | Holy Cross | St. Patrick's, Thurles | Nenagh Town Hall | Tipperary Map