Historic Places of Worship

The Iveragh Peninsula's spiritual landscape spans over a millennium, from early medieval monastic settlements to 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. This collection features 12 significant sites, including coastal priory ruins founded by monks from Skellig Michael, remote valley chapels, and parish churches showcasing local stone and Valentia slate craftsmanship. These locations highlight the region’s transition from secluded ascetic retreats to the central community landmarks found in villages like Kenmare, Sneem, and Portmagee.

Holy Cross Church

Completed in 1864, this Roman Catholic church features intricate wood carvings, stained glass by O’Connor of London, and a design influenced by the Gothic Revival style.

Ballinskelligs priory

These 12th-century Augustinian ruins were established by monks relocating from Skellig Michael. The site includes a church, domestic buildings, and a cemetery located directly on the shoreline.

Derrynane Abbey

Located on Abbey Island and accessible at low tide, these 6th-century ruins include a three-windowed gable and the tomb of Mary O'Connell, wife of Daniel O'Connell.

Abbey of the Holy Cross

15th-century ruins of a medieval church located near Cahersiveen, providing insight into late medieval ecclesiastical architecture in South Kerry.

Our Lady of the Valley

A small, simple Catholic church situated in the remote Black Valley, serving as a landmark for hikers traveling through the mountain pass near the Gap of Dunloe.

Portmagee Church

Also known as St. Patrick’s, this 19th-century Roman Catholic church serves the coastal fishing village of Portmagee and features traditional stone masonry.

Church of Saint Finian

12th-century Romanesque church ruins located on Church Island in Lough Currane. The site includes a carved doorway and remains of an early monastic cell.

St Michaels Church

Built in 1865 on land donated by the Earl of Dunraven, this church is noted for its distinctive salmon-shaped weather vane atop the spire.

St James Catholic Church

A large Neo-Gothic stone church completed in 1891, featuring a prominent tower and serving as a central architectural landmark in Killorglin.

Church of the Immaculate Conception

Located in Knightstown on Valentia Island, this church was built in 1914 to serve the local Catholic community near the island's main harbor.

St. John the Baptist

This Church of Ireland building in Knightstown dates to 1860. It was constructed using local Valentia slate and features a well-preserved period interior.

Mainistir Chíll a' Buaine

Also known as Killemlagh, these ruins represent a 6th-century monastic site. The remains include a medieval church with a Romanesque doorway and early Christian cross-slabs.