Some of the most impressive archaeological remains in Killarney date from early Christian times, and the most important of these is the ancient Monastery found on Innisfallen Island in Lough Léin.
This Monastery was founded in the 7th century by St. Finian the Leper and was occupied for approximately 700 years. Over a period of about 300 of these, the ‘Annals of Innisfallen’ were recorded, which chronicle the early history of Ireland as it was known to the monks. The original copy of the Annals now resides in a controlled atmosphere in the Bodleian Library in Oxford.
Today the endearing island of Innisfallen and the ruins of its monastic settlement can be visited by boat from Ross Castle. The small island offers a peaceful contrast to other busy tourist hotspots, allowing you to explore the quiet wilderness of the island and perhaps meet some of its current inhabitants in the form of Killarney’s native Red Deer who swim to its shores during the Summer months.
Learn about Innisfallen Island as part of our Jaunting Car & Lake Cruise Combo Tour
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