Sean na Sagart - and Abby Cemetery
Seán na Sagart
Surrounding the abbey is a cemetery and it is reputed that Seán na Sagart, the infamous priest-hunter, is buried there. A large tree marks the spot.
Born John Mullowney, he began his career as a horse thief but was arrested and sentenced to death . The jury cut a deal with him whereby he agreed to turn priest hunter to escape the hangman's noose.
He was very successful. One technique he used was to pretend to be sick and close to death. He would then call for a priest to confess his numerous sins. When a priest would arrive, Mullowney would grab a knife hidden under the bedclothes, and attempt to capture or kill his confessor. He was a despicable individual and detested by all.
Travel memory: When I nipped away from our guide in order to snap some pictures of the very picturesque sheep, he said upon my return, “Did she smile for you?”
“Yes!” I said.
(You can be the judge.)
Surrounding the abbey is a cemetery and it is reputed that Seán na Sagart, the infamous priest-hunter, is buried there. A large tree marks the spot.
Born John Mullowney, he began his career as a horse thief but was arrested and sentenced to death . The jury cut a deal with him whereby he agreed to turn priest hunter to escape the hangman's noose.
He was very successful. One technique he used was to pretend to be sick and close to death. He would then call for a priest to confess his numerous sins. When a priest would arrive, Mullowney would grab a knife hidden under the bedclothes, and attempt to capture or kill his confessor. He was a despicable individual and detested by all.
Travel memory: When I nipped away from our guide in order to snap some pictures of the very picturesque sheep, he said upon my return, “Did she smile for you?”
“Yes!” I said.
(You can be the judge.)