Holycross Ballycahill

12/06/2026

Parish Newsletter 14th June 2026

12/06/2026

Summer Solstice: Cabragh Wetlands
Please join us at Cabragh Wetlands Centre on Saturday 20th June, to celebrate the Summer Solstice.
Starting at 8.30 pm, we will celebrate the eve of the longest day, and the turning of the season, with an evening of music, song, drumming, mythology, botany folklore, story, poetry and chat. This will be followed by a cupan tae.
The event is free and all are welcome.

12/06/2026

A Rare Glimpse into Medieval Ireland

Hidden within Holy Cross Abbey is one of its most remarkable treasures – a rare 15th-century fresco depicting a hunting scene.

This fascinating artwork is one of the few surviving frescoes of its kind in Ireland. Despite the passage of more than 500 years, traces of colour and detail remain, offering a unique window into medieval life.

The scene shows a huntsman blowing a horn while holding a hound on a leash, accompanied by two archers preparing their bows. To the right, a stag crouches behind an oak tree, creating a vivid snapshot of everyday life and storytelling from centuries ago.

Partially worn by time, the fresco reminds us of the fragility of our heritage and the importance of preserving these remarkable connections to the past.

If you watched our recent video, you'll know this hidden gem is easy to miss – but once discovered, it becomes one of the most captivating features of the Abbey.

📍 Holy Cross Abbey, Thurles, Co. Tipperary

Have you visited the fresco during your tour of the Abbey?

11/06/2026

11/06/2026

🔔 The Bell Tower of Holy Cross Abbey

Hidden within the ancient stonework of Holy Cross Abbey lies one of its most fascinating features – the winding staircase leading to the historic bell tower.

For centuries, these worn stone steps have guided monks and caretakers upward to the bells that once marked the rhythm of daily life, calling the community to prayer and worship.

As you ascend the spiral staircase, the architecture tells its own story. Each step, shaped by generations of footsteps, offers a tangible connection to the people who lived, worked and worshipped here over the last 900 years.

Looking upward, a shaft of light illuminates the ancient stone, creating a moment that captures both the beauty and mystery of this remarkable heritage site.

📍 Holy Cross Abbey, Thurles, Co. Tipperary

Step into history and discover the hidden treasures that make Holy Cross Abbey one of Ireland's most treasured medieval landmarks.

https://holycrossabbey.ie/

10/06/2026

Holycross Abbey Shop

Located within the 800 year old Abbey Cellar, our shop serves locals and visitors alike as a place to have a coffee, tea, light snack, a chat or to spend some time browsing through the variety of religious goods, books, Mass Cards, and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

The barrel vaulted ceiling and rubble stone walls display the rawness of the original building.

08/06/2026

✨ Discover Holy Cross Abbey ✨

Step through centuries of history and explore one of Ireland's most remarkable medieval heritage sites.

From the Processional Doorway and Night Stairs to the famous Relics of the True Cross, every corner of Holy Cross Abbey tells a story that has endured for generations.

Located in the heart of **Thurles, Co. Tipperary**, Holy Cross Abbey offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience history, architecture, spirituality, and heritage in a truly peaceful setting.

📍 Thurles, Co. Tipperary
⛪ Over 900 years of history
🪟 Explore fascinating architectural features
🌿 A place of heritage, peace and discovery

Plan your visit and uncover the stories that shaped Holy Cross Abbey.

https://holycrossabbey.ie/

08/06/2026

Little Kickers - Holycross Community Centre on Saturday mornings

☀Summer Promotion☀
No Joining Fee for the month of June🥳
Free kit and Life Time Insurance⚽
Register now at:
www.littlekickers.ie
or contact Jonathan
[email protected]

08/06/2026