Rock of Cashel

Set on a dramatic outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel, iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Among the monuments to be found there is a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House.

Originally the seat of the kings of Munster, according to legend St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel in 978 and made it his capital.

In 1101 the site was granted to the church and Cashel swiftly rose to prominence as one of the most significant centres of ecclesiastical power in the country.

The surviving buildings are remarkable. Cormac’s Chapel, for example, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland.

The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions.

Opening Times 09:00 – 15:45.

Last admission strictly 45 minutes before closing time. Average Length of Visit 1 – 1.5 hours

Getting Here:

• By Car – Public car park close to site.
• By Bus – Take the X8 to Cashel and walk 500m from the centre of Cashel town off the Dublin Road.
• By Train – The nearest train station is Thurles.

The High Kings Loop walkway outside of Cashel town is a very welcomed amenity for our community. The starting point is at the new Car Park at the Kiln and I would recommend you to use that point as a starting location. Please DO NOT PARK your car at the Castlelake Cross or in Ballinamona.