Ardfert

Sacred architecture in Ardfert and the extensive dune system at Banna Strand are two themes of this article. Buildings that make the town interesting to visitors with an interest in culture include the Franciscan friary, the cathedral and the neighbouring churches. The focus falls on very different details: a long church, a six-storey tower, a Romanesque doorway and an unusual piece of stone carving. If you are looking for a holiday destination where historic architecture and a nature theme come together, Ardfert offers a range of starting points for planning your trip.

Friary and cathedral: architecture with distinctive details

Ardfert Franciscan Friary dates from the late 13th or early 14th century. It is a state-owned National Monument and is cared for by the Office of Public Works. Its church comprises a nave and chancel, which together measure 41 metres in length. The six-storey tower is another defining feature of the friary. The exact length and height of the tower provide concrete points of reference when exploring the building: your gaze can move between the extent of the church and the tower’s vertical structure.

Ardfert Cathedral is notable for its Romanesque west doorway. It has similarities to Cormac’s Chapel on the Rock of Cashel. The cathedral’s immediate surroundings also feature a series of nine lancet windows in the south wall. The doorway and windows represent different architectural features to focus on. Temple na Hoe stands beside the cathedral and is considered an outstanding example of late Romanesque architecture. The area around the cathedral thus contains several named buildings, each with its own architectural history.

A distinctive carving and a nature theme

Temple na Griffin dates from the 15th century. The building contains a carving depicting a griffin and dragon joined together. This motif offers a different way to explore historic architecture than measurements or building forms: here, the figure depicted takes centre stage. If you are travelling with children, the different details can be a starting point for exploring buildings and motifs; examples range from the Romanesque doorway to the animal depiction in the carving.

The extensive dune system at Banna Strand is designated as a Special Area of Conservation. Tobar na Molt Holy Well is also nearby. The spring is part of the Slí Bhreanainn walking route, which is also known as The Brendan Way. Nature, a holy well and a named walking route thus offer different points of interest for planning your trip.

Which focus suits your trip?

These different interests can help you decide whether Ardfert is the right destination for you and tailor your search for a holiday apartment or holiday home to the things that matter to you on holiday. The examples here offer both cultural and historical as well as scenic points of interest. Visits to the Franciscan friary are unguided; caution is advised throughout your visit. Keep this in mind when planning a visit to the friary.

More places to explore: Castlemaine, Kilgarvan, An Ráth Mhór, Faha, Castleisland, Glenflesk, Inch and Ballyferriter.

Back to the county travel overview: County Kerry.