Description

Nestled dramatically against the mountains of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey stands as one of the most photographed and beloved architectural masterpieces in Ireland. History of Kylemore Castle & Abbey delivers a thorough, beautifully accurate chronicle of this magnificent estate from its 19th-century origins to its modern spiritual legacy.

The book details the building of the castle by wealthy British MP Mitchell Henry as a grand token of love for his wife Margaret, a beautiful dream that was shattered by her tragic, untimely death. The narrative then charts the estate’s fascinating second chapter, when it was purchased in 1920 by a community of Irish Benedictine Nuns fleeing the devastation of World War I in Ypres, Belgium. Written with direct clarity, this authoritative guide explores the stunning neo-Gothic church, the famous Victorian walled gardens, and the generations of international schoolgirls who passed through its historic halls, making it an essential keepsake for anyone captivated by the magic of Galway.

Key features of this Connemara heritage masterwork:

• Authentic Romantic History: Explores original family letters, architectural plans, and construction logs from the Mitchell Henry era.

• The Benedictine Legacy: Details the rich spiritual traditions, survival struggles, and educational achievements of the Ypres nuns in the West of Ireland.

• Vivid Local Context: Richly illustrated with historical photographs and archival prints showcasing the wild beauty of Connemara over the past 150 years.