Ballintubber Abbey
Just a short drive from Knock House Hotel, Ballintubber Abbey stands as one of Ireland’s most remarkable living monuments — a place where history, faith, and resilience intertwine. Founded over 800 years ago, this sacred site continues to welcome pilgrims, couples, and visitors from around the world.
A Legacy Rooted in Kindness and Vision
The Abbey’s origins trace back to an extraordinary act of kindness. A young boy named Cathal, fleeing danger with his mother, found refuge in Ballintubber. A local man, Sheridan, gave them shelter. Years later, Cathal became King of Connacht, and in gratitude, he promised not merely to repair the old church, but to build a magnificent new one. Construction began in 1216 and was completed in 1225, entrusted to the Canons Regular of St. Augustine. Ballintubber soon became a thriving centre of faith, learning, and spiritual life.
Resilience Through Centuries
Ballintubber Abbey has withstood invasions, suppression, famine, and fire — yet its spirit never faltered.
- In 1265, the nave was burned by the Normans and rebuilt just five years later.
- The Abbey survived the Reformation, the Cromwellian destruction in 1653, and even the Great Famine, when thousands perished.
- Through the perseverance of clergy and community, restoration efforts continued across centuries — most notably under Fr. Thomas Reidy, Fr. Tómas Egan, and Fr. Frank Fahey.
Fr. Fahey’s leadership since 1986 has revitalized not only the Abbey itself but also the Tóchar Phádraig pilgrimage route to Croagh Patrick, revived the Passion Play, and expanded the Abbey’s retreat offerings — creating a living, breathing place of faith and reflection.
A Living Heritage for the Future
In 2024, Ballintubber Abbey celebrated a major milestone: full funding of its €5.8 million Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre — a space designed to tell the Abbey’s story and welcome visitors from across Ireland and beyond. This project represents a lasting commitment to the Abbey’s vision of faith, community, and cultural renewal.
Looking ahead, the Abbey’s Strategic Plan 2025–2028 outlines its dedication to preserving heritage, enhancing hospitality, and deepening spiritual engagement through pilgrim walks, community events, and guided tours.
A Pilgrimage of Connection – From Knock to Ballintubber
Many guests at Knock House Hotel choose to visit Ballintubber Abbey as part of their spiritual journey. The Abbey lies just 25 minutes from Knock, offering a peaceful complement to the sacred atmosphere of Knock Shrine. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of Saint Patrick along the Tóchar Phádraig, attending Mass, or exploring the Abbey’s tranquil grounds, Ballintubber is an unforgettable part of any Mayo pilgrimage.
Why not begin your journey at Knock Shrine, stay in comfort at Knock House Hotel, and continue on to Ballintubber Abbey — two enduring symbols of faith, hope, and Irish heritage.