History of Adare

Situated in the south west of Ireland, Adare is regarded as being Ireland's prettiest and most picturesque village, and is a haven for those wishing to escape and unwind taking in its medieval surroundings. Situated on the river Maigue, a tributary of the river Shannon, Adare is steeped in history dating back to 1200ad. Adare has been the subject of many rebellions, wars and conquests, leaving behind a legacy of historical monuments. In the early 19th century, the Earl of Desmond, laid the plan for the existing streets and townhouses of Adare. These lands and dwellings were rented to tenants, under various agreements, some of which still exist today.

Today, Adare village is an architectural wealth of scenic beauty. The mix of centuries is blended into everyday life as some of the thatched cottages are home to arts and crafts shops. The main street of Adare is punctuated with beautiful stone buildings, medieval monastries and ruins and the picturesque village park.

Adare's streets are lined with original thatched cottages survived for hundreds of years. Some of the cottages are kept by local restaurants and Arts & Crafts shops, but many are still privately owned. Take a stroll though Adare's streets and become transported to a time in Ireland's history. Located in the heart of County Limerick just 15 minutes south of Limerick City on the N21, and 40 minutes from Shannon airport, Adare is the gateway to the southwest of Ireland, bordering the counties of Kerry, Cork, Clare and Tipperary. Visit some of the links above to find out more information on Adare and its beautiful surroundings.

The Desmond Castle This castle was erected with an ancient ring-fort, around the early part of the 13th century. It became a strategic fortress during the following turbulent years. It was the property of the Earls of Kildare for nearly 300 years until the rebellion in 1536, when it was forfeited and granted to the Earls of Desmond who gave the castle its present name. Click here for information on touring this wonderful castle.

The Franciscan Friary Crossing the bridge over the river Maigue to the Adare Manor Golf Club, the friary is a characteristic example of the monasteries erected in Ireland during the 14th and 15th centuries. It was founded in 1464 by Thomas, the 7th Earl of Kildare, for the "Franciscan Friars of the Strict Observance". Although now in ruins, the remaining walls show a remarkable outline of its former elegance.

The Trinitarian Priory Situated next to the Adare Heritage Center , this is the only recorded Trinitarian monastery in Ireland. It was originally built by the Fitzgerald Clan for the Trinitarian order of monks in the early 13th century. This order of friars was founded in France, following the Holy-Land Crusades, with the main purpose of raising ransom money in order to rescue Christian captives taken by the Moors, during the crusade wars. It is believed that the Trinitarian monks who came to Adare may have come from Scotland. The monastery was suppressed and badly damaged during the reign of King Henry VIII. Repaired and enlarged in the mid 19th century, the building is, today, called the "Holy Trinity Abbey" and is used as the local Roman Catholic Church. A visit to this historical and beautiful building is highly recommended.

The Augustinian Priory Just a short walk from the village towards Limerick City on the banks of the rivery Maigue, the priory was founded by the Earls of Kildare in the early 14th century. It became and remained the home of the Augustinian Order until they were driven out, in the mid 15th century. The Priory was suppressed and badly damaged during the reign of King Henry VIII. Repaired and renovated during the early part of the 19th century, the building is regarded as a fine example of what a mediaeval Irish churches looked like. The building has been used as the local Protestant Church (Church of Ireland) since the early 19th century.
Back to the top