Ballintubber Abbey Unveils Ambitious Development Plan with Launch of Visitor Centre,
Strategic Vision, and Website
07th April 2025 will forever be remembered as a significant milestone in the story of
Ballintubber Abbey, a day when we bridged history and future, celebrating centuries of resilience
while stepping boldly into a new chapter.
Ballintubber Abbey, one of Ireland’s most revered religious and heritage sites, has entered a
transformative new phase with the official launch of its multi-million euro development
programme. This landmark occasion also marked the debut of the Abbey’s new website, hosted
on our own platform, and the unveiling of the Strategic Plan for 2025–2028, opening an exciting
chapter for the 800-year-old sanctuary known as “the abbey that refused to die.”
The day was described as a turning point for the historic Mayo site as it prepares to welcome a
new generation of visitors, pilgrims, and faith-based travellers.
Last year, Ballintubber Abbey was awarded €5.8 million under the Rural Regeneration and
Development Fund, a key initiative of the Department of Housing, Local Government and
Heritage. This substantial investment ensures the completion of the Ballintubber Abbey Cultural
and Heritage Visitor Centre, a vision first proposed in 2008, and now set to become a reality later
this year.
The newly launched website, created through Fáilte Ireland’s Digital that Delivers programme,
allows visitors to book guided tours and pilgrim walks online for the first time, directly through
the Abbey’s own digital home. Elaine Moyles of Fáilte Ireland commended this evolution and
Manager Suellen McKenna for her hard work and commitment in this programme:
“The Abbey’s commitment to enhancing its digital presence is a shining example of how heritage destinations can
adapt to the needs of today’s traveller. Through Digital that Delivers, the new website and booking system will
help raise Ballintubber’s profile both nationally and internationally.”
Founded in 1216, Ballintubber Abbey has survived invasions, persecution, and suppression. It
was burned twice and remained active even during the Penal Laws. Restoration efforts began in
the 1840s during the Great Famine, with further phases in the 1880s and 1960s. Under the
guidance of Fr Frank Fahey in the 1980s, the Abbey’s grounds were enriched and revitalised,
reviving the ancient Tóchar Phádraig pilgrimage.
Fr Michael Farragher, Parish Priest of Carnacon, Ballintubber and Killawalla, described the day
as a celebration of enduring faith and resilience:
“Ballintubber Abbey continues to be a living symbol of hope. As we take this step forward, we honour the past
while shaping a future filled with hospitality, spiritual renewal, and cultural richness.”
Realising a Long-Held Vision
The visitor centre’s journey began in 2008 through the vision of Fr Frank Fahey and
Ballintubber Abbey Trust. Planning permission was granted in 2016, supported by detailed
architectural studies. The local community rallied together, raising €163,000, with further
assistance from South West Mayo Development Company.
Initial funding of €2.6 million was secured in 2019 from the Rural Regeneration and
Development Fund, with an additional €350,000 from the Department of Housing, Local
Government and Heritage. The full scope of the project, however, only became possible after a
successful post-pandemic application secured a a total of €5.8 million – making the entire dream
a reality.
Minister Dara Calleary, whose department provided key funding, underlined the Abbey’s
national and spiritual importance:
“Ballintubber is not just a place of worship; it is a cornerstone of our cultural and spiritual identity. In a time of
global uncertainty, it is places like this, deeply rooted in heritage, hope, and community, that offer us strength. I am
proud that my department has been able to help bring this long-awaited vision to fruition.”
Minister of State Alan Dillon TD also spoke of the future:
“We are writing the next chapter of Ballintubber Abbey. This centre will unlock the site’s potential for tourism,
education, and community connection across the wider region.”
A Living Legacy and a Welcoming Future
Suellen McKenna, Manager of Ballintubber Abbey, acknowledged the deep local commitment
and the visionary leadership of Fr Frank Fahey:
“His belief in Ballintubber and its role in preserving our cultural and faith heritage has never wavered. His vision
laid the groundwork for everything we are celebrating today.”
Con Lydon of the Ballintubber Abbey Trust Building Committee reflected on the legacy:
“This centre is not just a building, it is a space for reflection, welcome, and encounter. It preserves the past,
enhances the present, and inspires the future. Ballintubber remains, as always, the abbey that refused to die.”
Images by Alison Laredo
