Did You Know?
The world famous Ballydoyle Stable, founded by one of the greatest trainers of all time, Vincent O’Brien, has seen some legendary horses pass through its doors, many including the great Saddlers Wells went on to stand as stallions at their breeding arm Coolmore Stud. Our tip for Tipp is to keep an eye out as you drive through the south east of Tipperary. The beautiful young foal you see by their mother’s side could be a future horseracing legend.
Holycross Abbey
Address: Holycross Abbey, Holycross, Thurles, Co. Tipperary
The abbey was transferred to the Cistercians about 1182. A particle of the True Cross was enshrined in the abbey, and Holycross became one of the most frequented places of pilgrimage in Ireland. Suppressed in 1536, the abbey was made over in 1563 to the Earl of Ormonde, but through the protection of the Butler Family, the monks remained at Holycross until the 17th century. It was very prosperous and several of the Abbots were peers of Parliament. The Abbey was later suppressed and given to the Earl of Desmond. In 1966 a new destiny opened up for Holycross. A move was initiated locally to restore the Abbey church and bring it back into use for the local community. Archaeological excavations began in the Abbey shortly afterwards and restoration began in 1971. The restoration was completed in 1975.