Kilree Monastic Site – Ancient Church, Round Tower & High Cross | Kilkenny

Overview

Kilree lies just a mile south of the village of Kells in the heart of County Kilkenny. Designated a state‑owned National Monument and cared for by the Office of Public Works, the site is an atmospheric cluster of three medieval treasures – the ruins of an early Christian church, a 29‑metre limestone round tower and an 8th‑century high cross. Though the grounds sit on private farmland and there is no formal visitor centre, a simple stile provides access, offering a quiet, almost otherworldly experience for anyone interested in Ireland’s early ecclesiastical heritage.

History

The monastic settlement at Kilree is traditionally linked to Saint Rhuidche (sometimes rendered “Ree”), a 6th‑century missionary whose name gives the place its Irish form Cill Rí – “the church of Ree”. Archaeological evidence suggests that the original church was pre‑Romanesque, identifiable by its pronounced antae (projecting side walls) and an oval enclosure that would have marked the sacred precinct.

By the 10th century the nave of the original building was incorporated into a larger stone church, and a chancel was added in the 12th century, reflecting the gradual medieval expansion of the site. The complex passed into the hands of the nearby Augustinian Kells Priory by 1340 and was surrendered to Henry VIII in 1539 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

Local legend ties the high cross to the 9th‑century High King Niall Caille, who is said to have drowned in the nearby Kings River and to be buried beneath the cross. While historians dispute the burial claim, the story adds a layer of mythic intrigue to Kilree’s past.

What to See & Do

The Church

The ruined church retains its original limestone walls, complete with antae on both east and west ends. The west gable is buttressed – a later reinforcement added by the OPW in the 1940s to prevent collapse. Inside, a simple limestone piscina sits to the east of the south wall, and the chancel houses two medieval grave‑slabs and an elaborately carved chest tomb of Richard Comerford (d. 1622) and his wife Johanna St Leger. The nave‑chancel division is marked by a later arch that supports the older Romanesque arch beneath it.

The Round Tower

Standing at 29.3 m (≈ 96 ft) tall, Kilree’s round tower is one of the most striking features on the landscape. Built of limestone on a rectangular stone pad‑foundation – a rarity shared only with the nearby Aghaviller tower – it rises six storeys plus a battlemented belfry. The arched sandstone doorway is unusually low, only 1.64 m above ground, and the tower’s four cardinal windows provide a glimpse of the medieval interior, which would once have been accessed by rope ladders.

Feature	Measurement
Height	29.3 m (≈ 96 ft)
Doorway height above ground	1.64 m
Diameter (approx.)	4.5 m
Number of storeys	6 + battlements

The High Cross

The sandstone high cross rises 2.75 m (≈ 9 ft) and is richly decorated with bosses, geometric motifs and narrative panels. The east face depicts a hunting scene, while the west side illustrates two biblical episodes – the Adoration of the Magi and Daniel in the Lions’ Den. A tenon joint at the top suggests that a capstone once crowned the cross, a feature now lost to weathering.

The Ballaun Stone & Other Finds

A short walk north of the tower reveals a natural bullaun stone – a shallow, cup‑shaped depression that folklore claims can hold curative rain‑water. The field also contains several medieval grave‑slabs, including an inscribed stone for Thomas Howling (d. 1534). These smaller artefacts help to round out the story of a site that was continuously used for worship, burial and community life over many centuries.

Visiting Tips

Parking – There is no dedicated car park, but a lay‑by on the roadside near the field entrance provides space for a few cars. Arrive early in peak season to secure a spot.
Livestock – The surrounding field is occasionally used for cattle; a sign warns of a bull. Keep a safe distance and respect any farm‑yard restrictions.
Photography – The tower’s silhouette is striking at sunrise and sunset; the low‑angle doorway makes for dramatic close‑ups.
Accessibility – The site is accessed via a low‑level stile and uneven ground; it is not wheelchair‑friendly.
Dog‑friendly – No official information is available on whether dogs are permitted on the field; visitors should check locally before bringing pets.
Guidance – The monument is unguided. Information panels are limited, so a quick look‑up on the Heritage Ireland page before you go can enrich the visit.

Getting There

By car – From Kilkenny, travel north on the N10 toward Stoneyford, turn right for Kells and follow the local road for roughly 2 km. The monastic site appears on the right, marked by the tall round tower. A short walk from the roadside brings you to the stile.

By public transport – The nearest bus stop is in Kells (served by Bus Éireann route 354). From the stop, it is a 15‑minute walk along the R694 to the field entrance. Taxis are also available from Kilkenny town centre.

Nearby Attractions

Kilree sits within a rich archaeological landscape that can easily fill a day‑trip:

Aghaviller – Another round tower and church, only a few kilometres north.
Grangefertagh – A round tower and church complex a short drive away.
Kells Priory – Well‑preserved Augustinian ruins in the village of Kells.
Black Abbey – A 13th‑century Dominican abbey in Kilkenny city, notable for its ornate stonework.
Jerpoint Abbey – A striking Cistercian ruin set on the River Nore, about 30 km east.
Dunmore Cave – A dramatic limestone cave with historic inscriptions, located near the River Nore.
Callan – A medieval town on the Kings River, offering shops, pubs and the historic Callan Bridge.
Barrow Valley – Scenic river walks and wildlife spotting along the Barrow.

Practical Information

Kilree is unguided and has no formal public access; visitors must cross a farmer’s field using the stile on the left‑hand side of the gate. The OPW does not provide parking, but ample roadside space exists near the field entrance. Because the field is occasionally used for cattle – a sign warns of a bull – it is wise to keep an eye on livestock and respect any farm‑yard restrictions.

Opening hours & fees – The monument is open year‑round and free of charge. As there are no facilities, visitors should bring water and be prepared for uneven, potentially muddy ground, especially after rain.

Safety – The site is unguided; the OPW disclaims liability for injuries. Stay on the marked paths, watch for livestock, and avoid climbing the tower – the interior is inaccessible and the capstone is missing.