Black Abbey Kilkenny

The Church and Priory of the Most Blessed Trinity, Black Abbey, Kilkenny was founded in 1225. The Black Abbey (deriving its name from the Black Friars, as the Dominicans were called) is the longest original established foundation of all the Irish priories.

In 1349, the community within the priory was badly affected by the outbreak of bubonic plague – known as the Black Death.

In 1558, during the reign of Elizabeth I of England, the property was confiscated by the crown.

From 1642 to 1649, the Black Abbey played a major part in Irish Catholic Confederation. However, this effort did not last long, as the English army under the command of Oliver Cromwell surrounded Kilkenny in a siege and the city finally surrendered.

On Trinity Sunday, 22 May 1864, Black Abbey was reconsecrated, and was opened again as a place of worship.

Church Services

Holy Mass

Daily Mass: 10.30, 1.05pm
Sunday Mass: Sat Vigil: 6.10, 9.00am, 12.00noon, 6.00pm

Sacrament of Reconciliation

Before Daily Masses
Saturday: 12-1pm

First Saturday Devotions

1^st Saturday of the Month at both daily Masses with Sacrament of the Sick.
Office of Lauds and Terce (Morning Prayer) 9.55am
Office of Vespers and Compline (Evening Prayer) 6.30pm