09 Jan Tuam, County Galway
This small town in County Galway has always been an important centre for church affairs.
It’s worth looking at on any Ireland tours for a number of reasons.
“Saint Jarleth” founded a monastery here in the 6th century, and the ruins of “Temple Jarleth” date from about 1360 AD.
In the centre of the town, in the market place, is the impressive 12th century “High Cross of Tuam”
This sandstone cross features inscriptions in memory of “O’Hoisin” (the Abbot), and “Turlogh O’Conor (King of Connacht)
O’Hoisin became the Archbishop in 1152.
There is also a marvellous 12th century red sandstone Romanesque Chancel Arch incorporated in Saint Marys Cathedral.
The cathedral itself was built in 1878.
Also dating back to the 19th century is the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Assumption.
This is a square towered cruciform building worth seeing.
At Ireland and Scotland Luxury Tours we enjoy passing through Tuam as it is a true hidden gem.