“At what altar did you pray
Before it came to crumble
Before what god did you kneel
Hoping for reprieve
How heavy was your purse
The gold you hoped would save you
Yet you still lie beneath this earth
Sinking into dust”

— Claire Loader

Sligo - the town has her secrets, tucked in lane and alley, nestled in foothill and valley, but at her heart is her jewel, her crown laid at her altar, the only sculptured altar in fact to survive to this day in Ireland. Indeed, few places survive at all with the treasures that live at Sligo Abbey. Founded in the mid-13th century, her enchantment has seen out fire, her alcoves resisted plunder - she stands today perhaps prouder than ever, to which she certainly has every right.

You can find the location of this fabulous abbey and the many other places I’ve visited here. Come explore with me amidst the ruins of the past, we may just find a gem.