Ardfert Cathedral

About the museum

Ardfert is associated with St Brendan the Navigator, who according to tradition was born in the area in the sixth century and founded a monastery here shortly before his legendary voyage to the Island of Paradise. The cult of Brendan inspired the three medieval churches that stand on the site today.

The oldest of them is the cathedral, begun in the twelfth century. It has a fine thirteenth-century window and a row of nine tall lancets in the south wall. One of the two smaller churches is a good example of late Romanesque architecture. The other, Temple na Griffin, is named after a carving inside it that shows a griffin and a dragon entwined.

The site is cared for by the Office of Public Works and is open seasonally. Visitors can see an exhibition and join a guided tour of the churches.

Highlights

• Twelfth-century cathedral with a row of nine lancet windows
• Late Romanesque church
• Temple na Griffin with its griffin and dragon carving
• Exhibition and guided tours
• Link to St Brendan the Navigator

Permanent exhibition

• Ardfert Cathedral exhibition and guided tour – An exhibition and guided tour about the three medieval churches of Ardfert and the cult of St Brendan.

Operated by

Office of Public Works (Heritage Ireland)

Admission & discounts

The site is part of the Heritage Ireland network run by the Office of Public Works.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The site lists uneven walkways, and dogs are allowed on a lead. A social guide in PDF form helps first-time visitors and people with developmental or learning disabilities prepare for a visit.

Kids & families

A child ticket and a family ticket are available.

Getting there & parking

Ardfert is 10 km from Tralee on the R551 (Tralee to Ballyheigue road).

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit