Cormac's Chapel

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Cormac’s Chapel Conservation Works at Cormac’s Chapel, Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary

Text by Michèle O’Dea, Senior Architect, Heritage Services, Office of Public Works

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ormac’s Chapel is the finest, most complete and probably one of the earliest Romanesque churches in Ireland. Cormac Mac Cárthaigh, King of Desmond (South Munster) began the building in 1127 and the completed structure was consecrated in 1134. It was built in the Romanesque style which arrived in Ireland in the early 12th century and Cormac's Chapel, one of the very earliest in this new style, is one of the most ornate.

Royal Paintings The wall paintings in the chancel of Cormac’s Chapel form the earliest known decoration of its kind in Ireland and date from the mid-12th century. The Paintings record scenes from the early Life of Christ. Although much has been lost, the fragmentary wall paintings are the remains of one of the most important and sophisticated schemes of mural painting in the country. Painted in expensive and sophisticated pigments, employing techniques found throughout royal courts and high status churches and cathedrals in early medieval Europe, the paintings are one of a rare and dwindling number of examples which give an insight into the rich and colourful world of royal art in 12th century Ireland. 24 www.heritageireland.ie


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