Plans for €5.8m. future visitor and culture centre at 800-year-old Mayo abbey unveiled

Plans have been unveiled for a future visitor and culture centre at historic Ballintubber Abbey.

The ambitious project, which will cost €5.8 million, was officially announced at the launch of the abbey's new strategy 2025-28, website and booking system.

Minister for Social Protection and Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary, along with his constituency colleague, Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Small Business and Retail and the Circular Economy, were in attendance for the event.

Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh was also in attendance as well as Kevin Kelly, chief executive, Mayo County Council, and his predecessor Peter Hynes.

The council has contributed €650,000 towards the investment.

Work on the development is due to get underway later this year.

Over 800 years the abbey has seen immense change, struggle and celebration.

From fires to Penal Laws and beyond, it still stands strong as the “Abbey that refused to die."

In recent times the abbey has become a destination for people of all religions and none and we’re excited about its future as both a spiritual and cultural centre.

Stated Minister Dillon: "Congratulations to everyone involved on their hard work to get to this point, looking forward to see the new development."

Minister Calleary also joined in paying tribute to the those behind the initiative.