ballybeg

The friary was founded in 1229 or 1237 for the Augustinian Canons by Philip de Barry who dedicated it to St. Thomas and erected a brass statue of himself on horseback in the church. David de Barry enlarged and enriched the monastery in 1235. The church was built shortly after the foundation and has tow fine west windows. The central tower with interior staircase and the tower to the west were both added in the 15th century. The claustral buildings contain little of interest. The most unusual feature of the whole Friary is the dove-cot or pigeon-house to the east-south-east of the church, which is probably the best-preserved example in the whole country. In 1574 the friary was granted to George Bouchier. By 1605 it was in the hands of Sir David Norton and in 1610 it was taken over by Sir John Jephson.