Full house in Kilkenny's Black Abbey as Dominicans mark 800 years

Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew with Bishop Niall Coll and members of the Dominican Order

placeholder image — Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew with Bishop Niall Coll and members of the Dominican Order

Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew McGuinness makes presentation to Dominican Order

Kilkenny’s Black Abbey was full on Sunday for a special mass to celebrate its 800th anniversary in Kilkenny, during which time the Dominican Order has served the people of Kilkenny.

Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew McGuinness marked the special occasion by addressing the congregation and presenting the Dominicans with a Mayor’s Award.

“The Black Abbey and all who have served in it have given Kilkenny an incredible service over eight centuries,” he said. “Not only did they restore and maintain that beautiful historic building but they have played a huge part on Kilkennny’s religious and civic life. The Dominicans and the Black Abbey are part of the fabric of Kilkenny and very much loved and respected throughout the city and county,” said Mayor McGuinness.

“The Black Abbey has seen wars, famines, beauty and hardship, and in the year of ‘hope’ we hope it has seen the worst the world has to offer and we hope the best is yet to come.

“I want to commend the Dominican Order who have ensured that building stood the test of time and stands in all its glory as a gem in Kilkenny’s crown.

“This award is presented to The Dominicans of the Black Abbey on the occasion of its 800th Anniversary 1225 - 2025, in recognition of 800 years of devoted service to the people of Kilkenny, and for preserving the Black Abbey as a vital centre of life.”