FRIARY ENNISH

Franciscan Priory, founded in the 13th century by Turlough O'Brien, King of Thomond. It was around this site that the town of Ennis developed. The priory became prosperous with the support of the O'Briens. Turlough O'Brien had it built in the hope of atoning for his sins and getting into heaven. He even hoped to be buried there, but he died before the construction was completed and was buried elsewhere. The monastery was dissolved in 1543, but the monks remained at Ennis until 1570 under the protection of the O'Briens and even occupied some of the priory premises until 1617.

The first shock comes from the height of the nave, the way the wall enclosing the church juts vertiginously into the void. The Creagh tomb is interesting for the 15th century altar it incorporates, showing in succession the betrayal, scourging, crucifixion, burial and resurrection. All these bas-reliefs have a remarkable composition, either by the significant disproportion of the actors, or by the stylistic audacity. The resurrection in particular. But the scourging and crucifixion scenes are just as fascinating. In the south transept, one should not miss a small frame in bas-relief: a presentation of the Ecce Homo of rare strength and beauty. The hollowed-out torso, the closed eyes, the bound hands resting on the very frame of the sculpture surrounded by the instruments of the passion and the crucifixion. A marvel of pure emotion. To be seen.