Get in Lads, We’re Going on an Adventure: Crafting Heritage: Nicholas Mosse and Jerpoint Abbey

Visiting Ireland will put your American perspective of history in check. I suppose visiting a place that is from the 12^th century will do that. Thanks to our driver Philip, we got to encounter a place that was not on our original itinerary, but should be on everyone’s radar when visiting County Kilkenny.

Founded in the 12^th century (around 1180) by Cistercian monks, Jerpoint Abbey was originally established by Donal MacGillapatrick, King of Osraige. The architectural styles within the church, constructed in the late twelfth century, reflect the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture. The tower and cloister date to the fifteenth century.

One does not have to be a medieval expert to appreciate the history that is palpable when visiting. The structure is a unique experience of open and closed spaces.

The Abbey itself is surrounded by countryside, leading to a more isolated feeling. There is a peace here. 

Perhaps that makes sense, but there is a comforting thought of past monks bustling about with their daily tasks that started with rising at 2am every day and engaging in a strict regime of prayer, meditation and the manual labor.
This is a tough life, but one filled with purpose. A Cistercian monk in England, Ailred of Rievaulx, described the daily experience: “Our food is scanty, our garments rough; our drink is from the stream and our sleep often upon our book. 

“Under our tired limbs there is but a hard mat; when sleep is sweetest, we must rise at bell’s bidding. Self-will has no place; there is no moment for idleness or dissipation.”

Jerpoint Abbey is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Its 15^th century cloister arcade stands as the main attraction, featuring a stunning sequence of intricately carved pillars.

These pillars depict a rich array of figures, from knights and noblewomen to common townsfolk, each exquisitely rendered in stone. Inspired by medieval manuscripts, these sculptures are considered among the finest surviving examples of Irish medieval art.

Inside the abbey, the tombs hold their own allure, especially those adorned with “weepers”—figures of apostles and saints sculpted around the tomb base in mourning postures. The abbey’s ceiling is equally captivating: look up into the crossing tower to see its beautifully crafted rib vaulting, a masterpiece of medieval design. Words like “stunning” don’t quite do justice to the artistry on display here.

You don’t need to be a historian to appreciate the cultural treasures of Jerpoint Abbey. While Kilkenny Castle is nearby, make Jerpoint Abbey your main destination — it’s truly a place where history comes alive.