Abbeygormican

 

Looking north showing ivy covered remains of Abbeygormican transept chapel

B. Doherty August 2020

 

Overview of transept chapel, Abbeygormican

B. Doherty 2022

 

Piscina, Abbeygormican

B. Doherty 2022

 

Chancel wall during works

B. Doherty 2022

Phase 3 of Capital Works at Abbeygormican concentrated on the chancel wall, following on from previous works to the transept chapel, Hannon tomb, piscina and eastern extent of chancel wall in 2020 and 2021.

Conservation works

Consolidation of exposed wall heads to the chancel wall was carried out by carefully taking loose stone down to a solid base, labelling the large facing stones and recording their location, and then rebuilt using lime and sand mortar.  Rough racking was installed along exposed edges using small stones bedded in lime mortar set to avoid ledges and to improve weathering. The wall will be kept covered to protect it over the winter months.

Ministerial Consent

All works were carried out under Ministerial Consent as required under National Monuments legislation and monitored by Declan Moore, Moore Group. Fergal MacNamara, Grade 1 Architect with  7L Architects supervised  works with structural engineering by Kinvara Consult, Capital works were carried out by Heritage Contractors Mathieu & Mitchell.

Transept Chapel

The revelation of the transept chapel after its overwintering under protection has greatly enhanced the appearance of the site. The entrance to the chapel is now stable owing to the works carried out. The Hannon Tomb can now be visited and appreciated in safety. Architectural features are visible on the lower chancel wall allowing examination and appreciation.

Importance of Support to Communities

Galway Community Archaeologist commends the community and professionals involved and highlights the importance of funding for communities who are the backbone of retaining our archaeological and built heritage. ‘We acknowledge and appreciate the support and assistance of all at The National Monuments Service, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in providing the funding for these projects. Galway Community Archaeology Project,  Marie Mannion, Heritage Officer and staff in Galway County Council have been instrumental in the administration of the Community Monuments Funds over the past three years.

Galway Community Archaeology Project is funded by Galway County Council & The Heritage Council