Located on the banks of the River Arrigle about 2km from Thomastown is Jerpoint Abbey. It is an outstanding Cistercian Abbey, which was built around 1160 by the King of Ossory, Donal MacGillapatrick, for the Benedictine monks. 

In 1180 it was taken over by Cistercian monks from Baltinglass Abbey. The Cistercian order was founded in 1098 in Citeaux. In 1228 there were 36 monks and 50 brothers in the abbey. 

Jerpoint Abbey is regarded as one of the most interesting Cistercian ruins in Ireland. It offers a unique insight into the lives of the monks because many of its domestic arrangements are still recognisable. The monastery was self-contained, and included its own gardens, watermills, infirmary, cemetery, kitchens, granary, stables and other outbuildings.

At the time of the dissolution of the monasteries in 1540 the abbey was granted on lease to James, the Earl of Ormond by the English crown. The lease included some 6,000 hectares of land belonging to the Abbey, watermills, cottages, weirs, fisheries and a castle.

One of the highlights of Jerpoint is the sculptured cloister arcade. There are exquisite carvings on the sixteenth century tombs in the transepts. Romanesque architecture abound within the North nave containing an array of decorated Romanesque capitals. 

The oldest parts of the abbey are the Irish-Romanesque transepts and chancel, which contains faded wall paintings. The east window dates from the fourteenth century and the fantastic central tower was added in the fifteenth century. 
Wooden steps still follow the run of the night stairs. By going up them, you will reach the roof and can look down on the Dublin-Waterford railway. The restored cloister piers carry carvings, which are similar to the drawings found on medieval manuscripts.

6th Class,
Convent of Mercy Primary School,
Thomastown,
Co. Kilkenny