152 pages, 425 illustrations (plans and black & white photographs)
This book contains descriptions of over 325 sites in Ireland where there are churches built sometime between the 8th century and the end of the 16th century. Over 30 of these sites are of Early Christian origin and have remains of more than one church. Round towers and cathedrals are included in this book, but not the churches of the abbeys and friaries of the 13th century and later which are featured in the companion volume Abbeys and Friaries of Ireland (the two are available as a set for £20).
Medieval parish churches and cathedrals in Ireland tend to be modest in size and layout. Many of them are now in ruins as a result of having passed during the 16th century Reformation into the control of the minority Protestant congregations, which in most places soon dwindled. A few old furnishings, effigies and other monuments which have survived are also included.
Also available as part of the three-volume set with Medieval Churches of Wales and Medieval Churches of Scotland for £30.