Kilconnell Friary is located on the old Dublin-to-Galway road, about 5 miles west of Ballinasloe. The friary is located just off the main street. The original site was founded by St. Conall in the sixth century, but the existing structure dates from the foundation of the Franciscan friary in 1353 by William O'Kelly, Lord of Hy Many. I've visited the Friary quite a few times over the years including 2003, 2008 and 2009.
There are a number of plaques within the friary, dating from the seventeenth century and bearing the crests of prominent families from the period.
There are a number of plaques within the friary, dating from the seventeenth century and bearing the crests of prominent families from the period.
A typical site in the Irish countryside - an old bathtub recycled as a drinking trough for cattle. In the background is Kilconnell Friary.
A typical site in the Irish countryside - an old bathtub recycled as a drinking trough for cattle. In the background is Kilconnell Friary.