Laois abbey's link to Austria to be celebrated at unveiling

New visitor signage will be unveiled at Aghaboe Abbey on Saturday, October 11 with the Ambassador of Austria to Ireland to attend the event. 

The new visitor interpretive sign is being unveiled by Laois Heritage Office and Creative Ireland Laois, in collaboration with the Aghaboe Abbey Preservation Committee. Her Excellency Melitta Schubert, Ambassador of Austria to Ireland, will represent the enduring and historic link between Aghaboe and Salzburg. This connection dates back to the early eighth century, when Feargal (later canonised as St. Virgilius), served as Abbot of Aghaboe around 703 before travelling to Salzburg. There, he founded a cathedral and his legacy was later recognised with canonisation in 1233.

The Aghaboe Abbey Preservation Committee, which marked its 50th anniversary in 2024, has long played a central role in safeguarding the abbey’s rich heritage. Over the years, the committee has nurtured strong ties with Salzburg, engaging in mutualvisits and exchanges that celebrate this unique cultural bond.

Laois County Council provided funding for the new interpretive sign through the Laois Heritage Office and Creative Ireland Laois. The content for the new interpretive sign was developed through a collaborative process led by Laois Heritage Office and the Aghaboe Abbey Preservation Committee.

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Laois Heritage Officer Thomas Carolan said: “It has been a pleasure to support and work with the Aghaboe Abbey Preservation Committee on this project. The group have been involved in restoration and maintenance of the abbey for many years, and this signage project is just a continuation of their great work protecting and highlighting this important site”.

Cllr Barry Walsh, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council said: “It’s a pleasure to see this project come to fruition and to welcome the Austrian Ambassador to Laois. The historic connection between Aghaboe and Salzburg, which dates back to the eighth century, is a remarkable legacy and it’s wonderful to see it still celebrated today.

”Working with archaeologists, historians, and a specialist illustrator, the team drew on the most up-to-date research to create a fascinating reconstruction of the site of Aghaboe Abbey as it may have appeared circa 1400. This new resource will enhance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the abbey’s historic and architectural significance."

Aghaboe Abbey Preservation Committee warmly invite members of the public to attend the unveiling at 3pm on Saturday, October 11. The event will be followed by light refreshments.