Historical Sites in Clane

The history of Clane is very rich, and many different groups throughout the years have occupied the town. Archaeological evidence shows that the area was first used as a settlement during the Stone Age. Over the years Clane has been a home for Franciscan Monks, the Normans and Irish natives, and was raided by the Vikings on a number of occasions. In addition to this Clane is where the 1798 rebellion broke out. In honour of Clane’s history, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite historical sites in the town.

The Abbey Community Centre

The Abbey Community Centre is the site of one of Ireland’s oldest monasteries, and is believed to have been founded by St. Aible around 520AD. Until 1162 the Abbey hosted the famous Synod of Clane, and was the Church of Ireland’s home until 1883, when a new church was built in Millicent. The Clane Community Council restored the Abbey’s beautiful medieval structure in the 1970’s. Now in use as the local community centre, the site continues to prove popular thanks to its beautiful building and Garden of Remembrance.

Friary and Abbey Cemetery

The Friary was founded by Gerald Fitzmaurice Fitzgerald in 1258, and is one of the oldest Franciscan monasteries in the country. The site features a still used cemetery set in the stunning old Friary ruins. Franciscans return to the Friary each year to celebrate mass.

McCracken’s Woollen Mills

The portion of the River Liffey that runs through Clane is strong enough to power machinery, which is why McCracken’s Woollen Mills was located on both sides of the river at Alexandra Bridge. The site has long been abandoned, and all that is left of the Mills today is the remains of the dye house found to the north of the bridge. The millrace channel remains can be seen from the Liffeyside Nature Park on the opposite bank.

If you’re interested in the history of Clane then you should definitely check out some of the wonderful historical sites mentioned above. Remember to drop into us here at Zest Café and Restaurant for a quick coffee when you’re done. Our online menu can be viewed here, and you can book a table online or by calling 045 893 222.