At the centre of Carrigtwohill there are substantial Cambro-Norman ruins of an Abbey and Belfry with its ancient graveyard believed to be of the Augustinian Order, allied to the monastery of the same Order at Ballybeg, whose construction commenced there circa 1229. Then in 1291 Carrigtwohill and Kilcurfin are mentioned for the first time for Papal Taxes, which came under the jurisdiction of Olethan (Castlelyons). These ruins are not documented anywhere. This Carrigtwohill & District Historical Society of County Cork seek to correct with your valued support.

As a society we have engaged a team of conservation specialist to advise us how best this may be achieved. Their project management will comply with the County Council’s objective set out under two distinct categories within their directive HE 3-4.

The first phase of this vital project is the preservation of the Abbey Tower and it Belfry for items not covered in the National Monuments grant for urgent remedial works. These additions include the clearing away of pigeon detritus and debris accumulated over the centuries; the removal of vegetation internally; and the placing of a capping of some sort over the tower to prevent further pigeon. For this we seek to raise €20K. There are also professional fees which need to be paid.

It is also envisaged that we shall eventually be able to undertake a ground penetrating radar survey to. This geophysical survey was our initial phase of our investigation into Abbey origins, with the resulting report submitted to assist us in deciding how best to proceed. However, following a site meeting with the County Council Heritage Department, it was realised that the tower required our immediate attention.

It is our society’s desire is to conserve the remaining Abbey structures to prevent them from falling into a further ruinous state, with the overall objective is to secure the remains being recorded by the National Monuments Scheme as a legally protected structure.

If you would like to learn more about our efforts, please email us and visit our website:

https://carrigtwohillhistoricalsociety.com/Default.aspx