Ennis Friary, the old Franciscan Friary on Abbey Street has now re-opened for the 2014 tourist season. And visitors to the historic site this Easter will have a chance to see the results of recent restoration works of the medieval ‘passion panels’.
Last year saw a record number of both locals and foreign tourists visiting the heritage site. And so far this year there has already been an increase in visitor numbers since the Friary opened at the beginning of the month.
The Office of Public Works, who manage the site, are encouraging local families as well as visitors to the town to go along during the Easter holidays to witness the ‘passion panels’
These panels were carved for a royal tomb built by the McMahon family in the 1400s and show in exquisite detail various scenes of story of Easter including Christ’s betrayal, crucifixion and resurrection.
There has also been renewed local interest in the site due to the millennial Celebrations of the Battle of Clontarf as Ennis Friary was the ancient burial place of Brian Boru’s ancestors The O’Brien kings of Thomond.
Ennis Friary is open seven days a week from 10am. Last admission is at 5.15 pm and guided tours are completely free of charge.