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Kilfenora's main claim to fame is its ruined cathedral and associated high crosses. At one time Kilfenora became a small diocese in its own right (c.12th century) and its first bishop was St. Fachnan. The church, which is now partly roofless became the (small) cathedral. The cathedral has a variety of carved figures, tombs and windows. There were five high crosses originally, but one was removed in 1821. The best-known is the Doorty Cross with three bishops and a double-headed bird on the east side; on the west is (possibly) a carving showing Christ entering Jerusalem and other carvings; this face is the less well preserved one. Only the nave is now still in use, having been incorporated into the Protestant church.
Whilst visiting Kilfenora try and drop in for a pint in a local pub. You could easily find yourself amidst some of Clare's talented traditional musicians in one of regular traditional music 'sessions' held in the bars. You might also find traditional set-dancing (Sundays are a good bet).
Kilfenora is located on the edge of the Burren and the Burren Display Centre, a co-operative local enterprise, has many exhibits displaying features of the locality.
There are some other interesting tales about Kilfenora. For example, due to a convoluted series of events of ecclesiastical history, the Catholic bishop of Kilfenora is the pope.
This co-operative enterprise in the middle of the village of Kilfenora sets out to interpret and explain the unique Burren landscape for visitors. Opened in 1975, the centre contains a wealth of descriptive material about various aspects of the Burren, including it's geology, flora and fauna. The centre offers a short film (made by Eamon de Buitléar, a well-known Irish maker of wildlife films ) which presents an overview of the region, and a large three-dimensional replica of the landscape showing the principal features. In addition there is a small shop selling crafts and souvenirs, and next door a tea-room.
Other towns of County Clare
Information about the Burren
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