Wells medieval parish church

By admin • April 29th, 2010
Wells Church

Wells Church

4.  Few medieval parish churches have survived in Carlow and Wells must have been one of the largest. Medieval sources refer to the parish church of Wells in 1262 and the visible remains date to this period although they have been restored in more recent times. 

Walking around the ruins one can trace the impressive form of a long naveand chancelchurch built with limestone rubble and granite ashlar  

The east and most of the south wall survive along with the reconstructed north wall of the nave. There are two tall, narrow, round-headed lights in the south wall. 

Gravestone in Wells Parish Church

Gravestone in Wells Parish Church

In the late-medieval or the early- modern period the nave appears to have been abandoned and a single bellcote was placed over the smaller eastern space. The chancel has a large window with dressed stone in the north wall. There is also a double piscina with canopy. The church is surrounded by an enclosed and well-maintained graveyard which is still in use today. 

Open: daily, daylight hours 

Admission: Free 

Parking: Yes

Nave: The main aisle of a church, occupied by the congregation.

Chancel: The eastern part of a church, usually where the main altar is situated.

Ashlar: Masonry comprised of squared stones.

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