Churches and Convents

Ballaghaderreen has a long and distinguished history as a religious and educational centre. It is the see town of the Diocese of Achonry. Tradition has it that this was an ancient Bishopric. The Cathedral is named after St. Nathy, a native of Lugne territory appointed by St. Finian of Clonard c.522.

The Sisters of Charity were invited to Ballaghaderren c.1875 by Dr. McCormack, Bishop of Achonry. The Sisters established a dispensary, primary, secondary and industrial schools.

Gallery

Cathedral Spire, Ballaghaderreen

This image was taken to capture the impressive spire which along with a new sacristy and bells was added to the tower in 1912. The gable fronted cathedral, built in 1855 was designed by a firm of English architects - Matthew Hadfield William Goldie and J. G. Weightman. The 1912 additional work was designed by W. H. Byrne. Skilled craftsmen were employed to carry out the work on this richly embellished cathedral. In the 1970's the gardens, hedges and trees, which softened the stark architecture of the cathedral, were unfortunately removed to make way for carparks. The card was posted in Ballaghaderin from the Monica Duff Post Office.

Cathedral Spire, Ballaghaderreen -

Convent of Sisters of Charity, Ballaghadereen

This colour tinted postcard is of the Gothic style convent complex, in Ballaghadereen. It was designed by J. J. O'Callaghan and built in 1876. The Sisters of Charity originally had it built, but now it is disused. There is a lovely stain glass detailing in the main convent, and the large ornate rose window is clearly visible on the chapel wall.

Convent of Sisters of Charity, Ballaghadereen -

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