Rathfran Friary
Description
Rathfran is a former Dominican Friary founded in 1274, purportedly by a de Exeter, possibly Stephen de Exeter or Richard de Exeter or William de Burgo. In the 15th Century some of the lancet windows in the south wall were built up, and at the same time a separate aisle was added and the nave partially rebuilt.
In 1438 indulgences were granted to those who could donate money to allow the building of a refectory and bell-tower. In 1458 it was reported that the friary was impoverished and reduced by wars and other disasters. Donatus Ó Conchobhair, Bishop of Killala 1461–67, was formerly a friar at Rathfran.
It was dissolved in 1577 and granted to Thomas de Exeter, and burned by Richard Bingham's army in 1590; the land was granted to William Taaffe in 1596. Friars lived in the area into the 18th century.
Building
The 13th-century church is a long rectangle with a small crucifixion panel over the west door and the remains of a fine triple lancet east window. To the north of the church, there were originally two cloisters, but only the foundations remain to show where they stood. The living quarters to be seen north of the church date from the 16th century and incorporate part of the original sacristy.